The purpose of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is to develop cryptographic algorithms and systems that remain secure against the computational power of future quantum computers, while also being secure against classical computers. PQC aims to protect digital communications, data confidentiality, integrity, and authenticity in a future where quantum computers could break widely used classical cryptographic methods such as RSA, elliptic curve cryptography (ECC), and digital signatures
. Quantum computers leverage quantum mechanics to solve certain mathematical problems-like integer factorization and discrete logarithms-much faster than classical computers, threatening current public-key cryptography. PQC algorithms are designed to resist these quantum attacks by relying on different mathematical problems believed to be quantum-resistant, such as lattice-based or hash-based cryptography
. Key objectives and benefits of post-quantum cryptography include:
- Quantum-proof security: Ensuring encrypted data remains secure even if powerful quantum computers become available
- Compatibility with existing infrastructure: PQC algorithms can be implemented on classical computers and integrated with current communication protocols, facilitating a smooth transition
- Protection against future "harvest now, decrypt later" attacks: Preventing adversaries from collecting encrypted data now with the intent to decrypt it later once quantum computers are capable
- Long-term data security: Safeguarding sensitive information, such as intellectual property and financial records, over extended periods
- Cryptographic diversity: Utilizing multiple types of quantum-resistant algorithms to reduce risk if one is compromised
Due to the anticipated timeline for quantum computing advances and the lengthy process of deploying new cryptographic infrastructure, organizations and governments are actively working to standardize and adopt PQC algorithms now to future-proof security systems
. In summary, the purpose of post-quantum cryptography is to ensure that digital security remains robust and trustworthy in the era of quantum computing by replacing vulnerable classical cryptographic algorithms with quantum-resistant alternatives
