In a world where data security is of paramount importance, the advent of quantum computing poses a significant threat to traditional encryption methods. As quantum computers continue to advance in power and capability, the need for post-quantum cryptographic algorithms has become increasingly urgent. Recently, the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published the world’s first three post-quantum cryptography standards, marking a crucial milestone in the ongoing effort to protect sensitive data from potential cyberattacks.
The standards include three post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, two of which were developed by IBM researchers in collaboration with industry and academic partners. The first two algorithms, ML-KEM (originally known as CRYSTALS-Kyber) and ML-DSA (originally CRYSTALS-Dilithium), were the result of extensive research and collaboration. The third algorithm, SLH-DSA (initially submitted as SPHINCS+), was co-developed by a researcher who has since joined IBM. Additionally, a fourth IBM-developed algorithm, FN-DSA (originally called FALCON), has been selected for future standardization.
The publication of these algorithms is a significant step in advancing the protection of encrypted data from potential cyberattacks that could be attempted through quantum computers. Quantum computers are rapidly progressing to a point where they could potentially break the encryption standards that underlie much of the world’s data and infrastructure today. As quantum computing continues to evolve, the need for quantum-safe encryption methods becomes increasingly critical.
IBM, a leader in quantum computing, has been at the forefront of developing post-quantum cryptographic algorithms to address these emerging threats. Jay Gambetta, Vice President of IBM Quantum, emphasized the importance of building a quantum-safe future alongside the advancement of quantum computing. IBM’s mission is not only to bring useful quantum computing to the world but also to ensure that the world’s most sensitive data and systems are protected from potential security breaches.
As quantum computers continue to accelerate towards useful and large-scale systems, IBM is committed to delivering error-corrected quantum systems by 2029. These systems are expected to run hundreds of millions of quantum operations, enabling the solution of complex problems that are currently beyond the reach of classical computers. IBM’s roadmap includes plans to expand these systems to run upwards of one billion quantum operations by 2033.
The newly published NIST standards are designed to safeguard data exchanged across public networks and provide digital signatures for identity authentication. These standards will serve as the blueprint for governments and industries worldwide to adopt post-quantum cybersecurity strategies. In 2016, NIST called on cryptographers worldwide to develop new quantum-safe cryptographic schemes, leading to the selection of four encryption algorithms for further evaluation in 2022.
In addition to the four selected algorithms, NIST continues to identify and evaluate additional algorithms to diversify its toolkit of post-quantum cryptographic algorithms. IBM has unveiled a Quantum Safe roadmap, outlining a three-step blueprint towards advanced quantum-safe technology. The company has also introduced IBM Quantum Safe technology and IBM Quantum Safe Transformation Services to support clients in their journey towards becoming quantum safe.
In conclusion, the publication of the world’s first three post-quantum cryptography standards represents a significant milestone in the ongoing effort to protect sensitive data from potential cyber threats posed by quantum computing. IBM’s leadership in developing post-quantum cryptographic algorithms underscores the company’s commitment to building a quantum-safe future alongside the advancement of quantum computing. As quantum computers continue to evolve, the importance of implementing quantum-safe encryption methods cannot be overstated in safeguarding the world’s most sensitive data and systems.