What websites and apps could become redundant in a quantum computing world?

[Darren51]

Quantum computing is often talked about in terms of what it can do, but not enough attention is given to what it might replace. If the technology reaches a practical level, some entire categories of websites and apps could become outdated or unnecessary.

The most obvious area is encryption based services. A lot of current security relies on mathematical problems that are extremely hard for normal computers to solve. Quantum computers could potentially break some of these systems much faster. That means tools built around current encryption methods may need to be rebuilt or replaced entirely. Some security platforms could become obsolete if they fail to adapt.

Another category is password based systems. If quantum computing weakens traditional encryption, the whole idea of passwords could shift. We might see a move toward different authentication methods, making many password managers and related tools less relevant over time.

Cryptocurrency platforms could also be affected. Many blockchain systems rely on cryptographic security that may not hold up against powerful quantum systems. If those foundations are challenged, parts of the crypto ecosystem could become unstable or require major redesigns.

Optimisation and calculation services are another area. Some websites exist purely to solve complex calculations, route planning, or data optimisation problems. Quantum computing could handle these far more efficiently, potentially replacing entire classes of tools with faster and more advanced solutions.

Simulation platforms may also change. Current tools for modelling complex systems like chemistry, physics, or materials are limited by classical computing. Quantum systems could make many of these tools outdated by offering more accurate and faster simulations.

However, it is important to stay realistic.

Quantum computing will not replace everything. Most everyday apps like social media, forums, streaming platforms, and general websites will continue to work the same way. Quantum computers are specialised tools, not universal replacements for current systems.

There is also a transition period to consider. Even if quantum computing becomes practical, existing systems will not disappear overnight. They will evolve, adapt, or be upgraded rather than instantly becoming useless.

So the real impact is not about everything becoming redundant, but about certain categories being forced to change or risk being left behind.

The interesting question is not what will disappear completely, but what will fail to adapt quickly enough.

So what do you think.
Which types of websites or apps are most at risk if quantum computing becomes widely usable?

[MondayMoan51]

I'd like to think MSTeams

[Oscar_86]

Haha really why? I vote Sharepoint

[error.404]

I dont think the author meant most hated apps otherwise they would have said co-pilot/onedrive

[Sinead_47]

Crypto is probably the most exposed if this actually happens

[MickFoley00]

Spot on. Ha, yeah that is about right.

Something being popular does not mean it is right for every situation, and that gets lost in most discussions.

Cheers

[NatureBoyMichael27]

Is it just me, or are we getting way ahead of ourselves? Everyone talks about replacing apps, but half the labs working on this can't keep a stable superposition for longer than a few microseconds outside of a dilution refrigerator. Until error correction actually catches up, current web apps are completely safe from quantum disruption. We are still decades away from standard software becoming redundant, let alone consumer tech.