What is it?
Post-quantum cryptography (PQC), also known as quantum-resistant cryptography, is a field of cryptography that focuses on developing cryptographic algorithms that are secure against attacks by both classical and quantum computers. As quantum computers become more powerful, they pose a significant threat to current cryptographic systems, which rely on mathematical problems that are difficult for classical computers to solve but can be easily solved by quantum computers using Shor’s algorithm. Post-quantum cryptography aims to develop new cryptographic algorithms that are resistant to these quantum attacks.
Why is it important?
As quantum computers become more powerful, they threaten the security of current cryptographic systems. Post-quantum cryptography ensures that sensitive data remains secure in the face of quantum computing advancements. Post-quantum cryptography is crucial for protecting critical infrastructure, such as financial systems, power grids, and communication networks, from quantum-based attacks. PQC helps preserve the privacy and confidentiality of sensitive information, such as personal data, health records, and intellectual property, in the quantum computing era. Post-quantum cryptography ensures that secure communication channels, such as those used in messaging apps, email, and virtual private networks (VPNs), remain uncompromised by quantum attacks.
What industries will it impact?
Finance and banking, Government and defense, Healthcare and medical devices, Telecommunications and IoT, Cybersecurity and IT services, Cloud computing and data storage, Automotive and transportation.
Market players
CryptoNext, EvolutionQ, ID Quantique, KEEQuant GmbH.