Quantum computing, a technological advancement that seemed like the stuff of science fiction just a few years ago, now stands on the brink of mainstream acceptance. The term quantum refers to the smallest discrete amount of any physical property, which is also applicable in a quantum computer that uses qubits instead of usual bits. The rise of quantum computing is set to be a game-changer in a wide range of fields, bringing with it the potential to significantly accelerate computational tasks and solve problems that are currently out of reach for even the most powerful supercomputers.

Unlike classical computers, a quantum computer harnesses the principles of quantum mechanics, superposition, and entanglement. A qubit in a superposition state can be both 0 and 1 simultaneously, a characteristic that allows quantum computers to perform multiple calculations simultaneously. In contrast, classical computers have to perform these calculations sequentially. This quantum advantage could expedite tasks like factorizing large primes, making optimization, simulating quantum systems, and cryptography much quicker.

However, while quantum computing holds huge potential, its practical deployment is still a few years away. It requires a lot of expertise and resources in quantum physics, algorithms, and engineering. The machines are expensive and hard to maintain. Yet, the tech industry is making significant strides in this field. Corporations like Google, IBM, Microsoft, and many others have already invested heavily in research and development, aiming to build increasingly advanced quantum computing systems.