Trump Signs Quantum Orders Amid Bitcoin Risk
President Donald Trump signed two executive orders on Monday to advance US quantum computing and post-quantum encryption. The push is tied to what experts call 'Q-Day,' when quantum computers could become strong enough to break government systems and cryptocurrency wallets' encryption.
The first order calls for building a scientifically relevant quantum computer by 2028, with the Commerce, Energy, and Defense Departments, along with NASA, creating plans for quantum sensors and networking tools within five years. The plan is to place it at a national laboratory or another Department of Energy facility as a step toward larger systems.
The second order moves the federal deadline for adopting post-quantum cryptography from 2035 to December 2031, with a pilot project to transition federal systems by the end of 2027. The Cybersecurity and Infrastructure Security Agency will help operators of critical infrastructure make the same switch.