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BackWhat is Post-quantum cryptography (PQC)?
Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) refers to cryptographic algorithms designed to remain secure against attacks from both classical and quantum computers. Unlike traditional public-key cryptography, which could become vulnerable to powerful quantum computers, PQC algorithms are built to resist quantum attacks while running on today’s computing systems.
Many widely used cryptographic algorithms, including RSA and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC), rely on mathematical problems that quantum computers could solve efficiently using algorithms such as Shor’s algorithm. As quantum computing advances, organizations need cryptographic methods that can continue protecting sensitive data for years to come.
Post-quantum cryptography enables organizations to prepare for this transition without requiring quantum hardware, making it a practical approach to future-proofing digital security.
Why post-quantum cryptography matters
Although large-scale quantum computers capable of breaking current public-key cryptography are not yet available, attackers can intercept and store encrypted data today with the expectation of decrypting it later when quantum capabilities mature. This strategy is commonly known as “harvest now, decrypt later.”
PQC helps organizations:
- Protect sensitive data against future quantum attacks.
- Prepare for the replacement of vulnerable public-key algorithms.
- Support long-term confidentiality for regulated and critical data.
- Reduce future migration risks.
- Strengthen cryptographic resilience across systems and applications.
- Align with emerging cryptographic standards.
Organizations handling long-lived sensitive information, such as government agencies, financial institutions, and healthcare providers, are among the earliest adopters of PQC.
How post-quantum cryptography works
Unlike RSA and ECC, PQC algorithms rely on mathematical problems that are believed to remain difficult for both classical and quantum computers.
| Cryptography type | Security basis |
|---|---|
| RSA | Integer factorization |
| Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) | Elliptic curve discrete logarithm problem |
| Post-quantum cryptography | Quantum-resistant mathematical problems such as lattices, hash functions, and error-correcting codes |
Many PQC algorithms can integrate into existing protocols with software updates, allowing organizations to adopt quantum-resistant cryptography without replacing their hardware.
Where PQC is used
As organizations prepare for quantum-safe security, PQC is being integrated into multiple technologies.
| Use case | Purpose |
|---|---|
| TLS | Secure web communications |
| VPNs | Protect remote access connections |
| Email encryption | Secure confidential communications |
| Digital signatures | Authenticate software and documents |
| PKI | Modernize certificate infrastructure |
| IoT devices | Protect connected devices against future attacks |
Adoption is expected to increase as standards bodies finalize and organizations implement quantum-resistant algorithms.
How Hexnode helps support cryptographic security
Hexnode UEM helps organizations secure the endpoints that use modern cryptographic technologies by enforcing device security policies, deploying operating system updates, managing approved applications, and monitoring compliance across managed devices.
Hexnode UEM also supports encryption policy enforcement on supported platforms, device restrictions, and centralized endpoint management. While Hexnode does not implement post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, it helps organizations maintain secure, up-to-date endpoints that can adopt new cryptographic standards as operating systems, applications, and platforms begin supporting PQC.
FAQs
Yes. Several post-quantum cryptographic algorithms have been standardized, and vendors are gradually integrating them into operating systems, browsers, security products, and communication protocols.
No. PQC replaces vulnerable public-key cryptographic algorithms such as RSA and ECC. Symmetric encryption algorithms like AES remain resistant to quantum attacks, although larger key sizes may be recommended in some cases.
