A quantum computer uses atomic quantum states to effect computation. Data is held in qubits (quantum bits), which have the ability to hold all possible states simultaneously. This property, known as “superposition,” gives quantum computers the ability to operate exponentially faster than conventional computers as word length is increased. Data held in qubits is affected by data held in other qubits, even when physically separated. This effect is known as “entanglement.” Achieving both superposition and entanglement is extremely challenging.