NISQ Devices

Definition ∞ NISQ devices are noisy intermediate-scale quantum computers. These machines possess a limited number of qubits, generally between 50 and a few hundred, and exhibit significant error rates. They represent the current generation of quantum hardware, capable of executing some complex computations but not yet fault-tolerant. Their operational characteristics make them unsuitable for universal quantum error correction.
Context ∞ NISQ devices stand central to current quantum computing research and development, frequently appearing in reports on technological progress. Their existence signals the early stages of quantum advantage, prompting discussions in crypto news regarding potential future threats to existing cryptographic standards, including those underpinning blockchain security. The ongoing work to overcome NISQ limitations drives innovation in the field.