Rethinking Cryptography: What Government IT Teams Need for Quantum Security

Quantum computing is no longer a distant, sci-fi fantasy.

For federal IT leaders, it isn’t a question of "if" quantum computing will reshape the cryptographic landscape, but when — and that might happen sooner than anyone expected. That means the current cryptographic standards that protect sensitive government data are under threat. But quantum security can save the day.

In this article, we’ll explore why rethinking cryptography is essential in the face of quantum computing, and how federal IT teams can prepare now for a secure future.

The Quantum Cryptography Threat: Why It’s Time to Pay Attention

Today’s encryption standards, such as Rivest–Shamir–Adleman (RSA) algorithm and ECC (Elliptic Curve Cryptography), have served government agencies well by using a large number made of two large prime numbers. These methods rely on the difficulty of solving complex mathematical problems, which even classical computers would need eons – 300 trillion years, to be exact – to crack.

Imagine a computer that could crack the code in 10 seconds. That’s exactly what a perfect quantum computer can do.

Quantum computers can, run Shor’s algorithm to, break RSA and ECC in a fraction of the time by using quantum mechanics to find those prime numbers. This of course will render traditional encryption methods obsolete, a scenario sometimes called "Q-Day."

While many experts disagree on exactly when this will happen, three researchers in China said in 2020 they found a way to use quantum technology to decrypt, and that it will be available in four to five years. That means agencies must plan as though it’s imminent.

What Does Quantum Security Look Like?

So, what comes after the fall of RSA and ECC? Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) is the field dedicated to developing algorithms resistant to quantum attacks. These encryption methods are designed to withstand the powers of a quantum computer while remaining compatible with classical systems. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is already leading the charge, narrowing down the contenders for standardized quantum-resistant algorithms.

Key to this shift is adopting cryptographic agility — building systems that can quickly transition to new cryptographic standards without undergoing massive overhauls. For federal agencies, ensuring cryptographic agility is mission-critical to stay ahead of emerging threats.

Steps to Making Sure Your Agency is Cryptographically Ag

Audit Your Cryptographic Systems

Before you can even think about switching to quantum-resistant encryption, you need a clear understanding of where cryptographic techniques are used within your systems. This involves identifying which algorithms are in play, how data is encrypted, and where vulnerabilities might lie. Auditing will also reveal what parts of the infrastructure require the most immediate attention in preparation for PQC.

Invest in Quantum Research and Talent

Federal agencies should increase their investments in both quantum research and talent. Partnering with universities and research institutions, as well as bringing in top-tier cryptographers with quantum expertise, will be crucial for keeping pace with advancements. The quicker you understand quantum technology, the quicker you can adapt.

Collaborate with Industry and Standards Bodies

As quantum computing progresses, collaboration between the public and private sectors is essential. Government agencies need to actively participate in the development of post-quantum standards through NIST, as well as with global partners. By staying plugged into industry developments, agencies can anticipate future quantum threats and address them proactively.

Upgrade IT Infrastructure with Quantum in Mind

Many federal systems are running on aging infrastructures. Now is the time to upgrade those systems with quantum readiness in mind. Think about scaling up your processing power and incorporating quantum-resistant algorithms. This also includes investing in hardware security modules (HSMs) – a physical computing device that safeguards and manages cryptographic keys and provides cryptographic processing – and digital certificates that are PQC-ready.

Adopt a Zero-Trust Architecture

The reality is that even with PQC, no system will be foolproof. Adopting a zero-trust approach to network security, where no entity is trusted by default, will help mitigate the risks. Zero-trust architectures ensure that, even if encryption is compromised, the broader system is not laid bare for exploitation.

Planning for Post-Q-Day

Federal agencies are in a unique position — they can’t afford to wait until quantum computing breaks their current cryptographic defences. Planning for a post-Q-Day world needs to start now. That means they must adopt a forward-thinking mindset that accounts for cryptographic agility, quantum-ready infrastructure, and continuous collaboration with the brightest minds in the field.

The quantum age is coming, and with it, the need to rethink the very foundation of how we secure government systems. The sooner agencies start building their quantum-security strategy, the better prepared they’ll be to secure the nation’s most sensitive information for generations to come.