Be Quantum-ready
A guide to protecting your organization from quantum threat
Quantum computers are advanced machines that use quantum-mechanical principles to perform complex calculations. These powerful computers have the capability to significantly surpass the computational capabilities of classical computers. Some applications of quantum computing include solving complicated optimization problems, modeling complex systems such as the behavior of molecules, improving artificial intelligence algorithms, and performing simulations that are difficult or impossible to perform on classical computers.
Quantum threat & post-quantum cryptography
While technological developments in this area are poised to bring immense opportunities, they will also expose organizations to what is referred to as Quantum Threat. These threats arise due to the potential for quantum computers to render current cybersecurity technologies inadequate.
For instance, most current encryption methods rely on the fact that it is computationally not feasible for a classical computer to factorize large numbers. But quantum computers can perform this task much more quickly using an algorithm called Shor's algorithm. So, cryptographically relevant quantum computers could break certain types of encryption, which would lead to the compromise of sensitive information, such as financial transactions, medical records, and government communications. In addition, quantum computers could be used to gain a strategic advantage in military or economic operations. All of which would have disastrous consequences for our highly connected society.
To address these risks, organizations can adopt measures to make their infrastructure quantum resistant. One such measure is post-quantum cryptography (PQC), or quantum-resistant cryptography, which refers to new cryptographic algorithms that are being developed to increase resilience against attacks by quantum computers. These algorithms aim to design cryptographic systems that are secure against both quantum and classical computers and are interoperable with existing communication protocols and networks.
Be quantum-ready
Although most quantum computers are currently restricted to research labs, it is estimated that it will take at least a decade for them to become commercially available. Despite this, organizations should start preparing for quantum threats now for three main reasons:
- Existing cryptographic algorithms will be ineffective against quantum attacks
- Adopting quantum-resistant measures will be a complex process that should be developed soon to keep pace with technological developments in quantum computing
- The "store-now, decrypt-later" threat is a serious concern that governments and businesses must prepare for
Given the potential risks, it is important for organizations to start considering the impacts of quantum computers and how they can mitigate quantum threats. There is no one-size-fits-all approach to preparing for secure cryptographic communications in a post-quantum world, as every business is unique.
Our commitment
With a close eye on the NIST quantum-resistant algorithm finalists, we are working towards a PKI solution to protect organizations against quantum threat. Offered as a service, it will enable you to provision hybrid certificates that can be used for both, legacy as well as PQC devices and applications. It will also be possible to create hybrid or quantum-only certificate authority hierarchies.
We have stayed ahead of the curve by always anticipating and preparing for the next technological transformation. With quantum computing poised to be the next paradigm-shifting development, we are designing solutions to help governments defend their sovereignty and enable enterprises to preserve their integrity.
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