Quantum leap

Quantum computers have always thrilled scientists as these could break unbreakable codes. Though not practically feasible yet, they are useful tools to explore the theoretical limits of computation. E Knill, R Laflamme and W Zurek have recently built a fault-tolerant quantum computer, that operates reliably provided the components operate within specified tolerance levels. This has exciting implications for further development of quantum computers since building fault-tolerant systems will be an essential prerequisite for realising the immense potential of quantum computers.