Before you know it, the post-quantum era will be here

With the rise of quantum computing, the problems of complexity and fast change are brought together.

Quantum computers don't follow the usual digital rules of ones and zeros, which we all know. So, even relatively simple quantum computers will be able to easily break some of the most secure cryptographic algorithms used today. This may sound like science fiction, but quantum computers improve year after year. It's not a question of if they'll come, but of when.

Luckily, forward-thinking groups like the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) are working with the cryptography community to set standards that will still work after quantum computers are made. In fact, people have already talked about new algorithms. This means updating libraries and services so they can work with the new NIST standards for cryptography after quantum computers.

Any connected product or system you make today needs to be ready for a future after quantum computing. PQShield is a partner of Keyfactor and a world leader in coming up with new standards for cryptography. Read their white paper series on the quantum threat to learn more about how organisations can get ready for cryptography after quantum computing.

Getting ready for change
This is changing, and any company that wants to make or use connected devices will have to change with it.

First, IoT devices need well-thought-out systems and processes for security tasks like managing identities and communicating through the cloud. This is what PKI says.

Second, IoT devices need to be ready for change even when they are already in use. They will need to be ready to use the new standards for post-quantum technology that NIST will announce in July 2022. This can be taken care of by making sure that devices and systems are built with crypto-agility in mind, so that the old cryptography that is still used today can be switched over to the new standards without any problems.

With these pieces in place, companies that make devices for the Internet of Things and those that use them can reduce risk and focus on the products, services, and business models that will create the future safely.