President Trump directs federal agencies to build quantum computer and update encryption

President Trump signed two executive orders on Monday directing the federal government to develop a quantum computer for scientific research and requiring intelligence agencies to move key computing systems to post-quantum cryptography by 2030 or 2031.

The orders were announced at an Oval Office event attended by executives from several technology companies. President Trump described the directives as "a big step forward" and said the United States would invest in quantum leadership over the next five years.

Research and development order The first order focuses on building a quantum computer capable of processing information faster than conventional machines. Officials stated the goal is to maintain U.S. leadership in the field. Michael Kratsios, director of the White House Office of Science and Technology Policy, said private-sector investment in quantum technology has increased and that the order would accelerate commercial applications.

Cybersecurity order The second order sets a timeline for federal agencies to adopt post-quantum cryptography, which is designed to protect systems from attacks by advanced quantum computers. The deadline for moving key systems is 2030 or 2031. Last month the Commerce Department announced plans to take equity stakes totaling $2 billion in nine quantum-computing companies.