Boson Sampling

Definition ∞ Boson sampling is a computational problem that involves generating samples from the output distribution of bosons passing through a linear optical network. This quantum computational task is believed to be hard for classical computers to simulate efficiently, even though it does not offer universal quantum computation capabilities. It serves as a strong candidate for demonstrating quantum supremacy, where a quantum device performs a calculation practically impossible for the most powerful classical supercomputers. The process typically uses photons, which are bosons, directed through a series of beam splitters and phase shifters.
Context ∞ Within the realm of quantum computing research, boson sampling continues to be a subject of intense scientific investigation, aiming to push the boundaries of quantum computational power. While not directly applicable to current cryptocurrency security, advancements in quantum computing, including boson sampling experiments, are closely observed for their long-term implications for cryptographic algorithms. The ongoing discussion centers on improving the scalability and reliability of these quantum devices, assessing their potential impact on post-quantum cryptography.