Evaluation of statistical properties and cryptographic strength of random sequences obtained by an IBM quantum computer

Abstract

The paper aims to study the possibilities of using quantum generators based on the IBM Quantum Experience system in solving practical problems. The subject of the study is the evaluation of the statistical properties of quantum sequences. Special attention is paid to the application of such solutions in cryptographic algorithms. The relevance of the research is due to the possibility of compromising key information in deterministic algorithms for generating random sequences, as well as progress in the field of quantum computing. In the course of the study, the principles of the formation of quantum circuits were considered based on which software was developed that forms quantum sequences according to specified parameters. Three variants of quantum circuits were studied: a one- and five-qubit circuit for the IBM Quito quantum computer and a 25-qubit circuit for a quantum simulator. With the help of each of the circuits, sequences were formed for which statistical properties were evaluated based on the NIST SP 800-22 standard. In the course of the research, it was found that random sequences obtained on the IBM Quito quantum computer don’t have good statistical properties. Such sequences didn’t pass most statistical tests and also showed a distribution different from the distribution obtained on the simulator. The deterministic external environment is a crucial problem of weak statistical properties, which affects the operation of valves and meters. The degree of its negative impact determines the quality of the entire quantum machine. The study results can be used as a basis for further research of other quantum machines, as well as a basis for the overall improvement of the quality of a quantum computer. A quantum computer can help with incomparable calculations with supercomputers' capabilities. IBM's latest developments in the calibration of qubits and work with quantum errors will bring closer the possibility of their use in cryptography. Therefore, an essential aspect of development in this direction is the potential reduction of the impact of the external environment on quantum computer operation.

Keywords

• quantum generator, quantum computer, random sequence, deterministic noise, statistical properties, cryptographic strength.