Is RSA Safe? New Study Argues Quantum Computers Face a Hard Ceiling

Researchers propose a new theory, Rational Quantum Mechanics, which suggests that quantum systems have a finite information capacity, limiting the scalability of quantum computing¹. This theory estimates that quantum computers will reach a practical upper bound of around 200 to 1,000 fully usable qubits, beyond which they will lose their expected exponential advantage. As a result, large-scale applications, such as breaking 2048-bit RSA encryption, may be impossible to achieve with quantum computing. The implications of this theory are significant, as it could render certain types of encryption, like RSA, safe from quantum computer attacks. If proven correct, this theory would alleviate concerns about the potential for quantum computers to compromise widely used encryption protocols. This matters to practitioners because it could mean that existing encryption methods, like 2048-bit RSA, may remain secure against quantum computer attacks, simplifying the transition to quantum-resistant cryptography.