The rapid advancement of quantum computing is set to revolutionise technology, but it also poses a significant threat to current encryption methods.
In response, the UK’s National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC), part of GCHQ, has issued new guidelines to help organisations prepare for the post-quantum era. The goal is to ensure that sensitive data remains protected against the potential vulnerabilities quantum computing could introduce.
As quantum computers become more powerful, they will be capable of breaking traditional encryption algorithms, putting secure communications, financial transactions, and critical infrastructure at risk.
The NCSC’s new guidance emphasises the urgent need for organisations to begin transitioning to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) – a new class of encryption designed to resist quantum attacks.
By following the recommended phased migration plan, businesses and government agencies can stay ahead of emerging threats, ensuring their cybersecurity measures remain robust in the face of quantum advancements.
Why quantum computing poses a threat to current encryption
Modern encryption methods, such as RSA and ECC, rely on the difficulty of solving mathematical problems like prime factorisation and discrete logarithms.
Classical computers take an impractically long time to break these encryptions, making them effective for securing sensitive data.
However, quantum computers can solve these problems significantly faster. This means that encrypted data stored today could become accessible to attackers in the future once quantum computers reach sufficient maturity.
To counter this looming threat, organisations must start migrating to quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions before quantum computers become a practical tool for cybercriminals.
What is post-quantum cryptography?
Post-quantum cryptography refers to a new generation of cryptographic techniques designed to withstand attacks from quantum computers.
Unlike traditional encryption methods, which rely on complex mathematical problems that classical computers struggle to solve, quantum computers leverage quantum mechanics to process information exponentially faster.
This capability threatens existing encryption models used in secure communications, financial transactions, and data protection.
By developing and deploying quantum-resistant algorithms, PQC aims to future-proof digital security, ensuring that confidential information remains safe even in the era of advanced quantum computing.
The transition to post-quantum cryptography is essential for maintaining cybersecurity resilience in an increasingly digital world.
The UK’s three-phase migration plan
To ensure a smooth transition to quantum-resistant encryption, the NCSC has outlined a three-phase migration strategy spanning from now until 2035:
Phase 1 (Up to 2028)
Organisations are advised to identify cryptographic services that require upgrading. This phase involves evaluating existing encryption methods, understanding vulnerabilities, and developing a comprehensive migration plan to PQC.
Phase 2 (2028–2031)
As post-quantum cryptography standards and technologies mature, organisations should begin executing high-priority upgrades. This period allows for adjustments to migration strategies based on technological advancements and industry best practices.
Phase 3 (2031–2035)
The final phase involves the complete transition to quantum-resistant encryption for all systems, services, and products. By this stage, organisations should have fully adopted PQC, ensuring long-term security against quantum threats.
Why businesses should act now
For small and medium-sized businesses, the shift to post-quantum cryptography will likely be a seamless process as software and service providers integrate quantum-resistant encryption into their regular updates.
However, large enterprises and government agencies with complex digital infrastructures must take immediate action to assess their cryptographic dependencies and prepare for the transition.
Proactive planning reduces the risk of rushed implementations, which could introduce security gaps and operational disruptions. By starting the migration process early, organisations can spread costs over time, mitigate risks, and maintain compliance with evolving cybersecurity regulations.
NCSC Chief Technical Officer Ollie Whitehouse added: “Quantum computing is set to revolutionise technology, but it also poses significant risks to current encryption methods.
“Our new guidance on post-quantum cryptography provides a clear roadmap for organisations to safeguard their data against these future threats, helping to ensure that today’s confidential information remains secure in years to come.
“As quantum technology advances, upgrading our collective security is not just important – it’s essential.”
The future of cybersecurity in a quantum era
The UK Government’s emphasis on post-quantum cryptography highlights the importance of staying ahead of potential threats before they become critical.
As quantum technology continues to develop, securing digital communications and sensitive data must remain a top priority.
Organisations that begin their transition to PQC today will be better positioned to protect their assets in the years to come.
By following the NCSC’s roadmap, businesses and government agencies can safeguard their digital infrastructure, ensuring a secure and resilient cybersecurity landscape in the quantum computing era.
