It sometimes feels like we've been talking about quantum computing for decades. But last month finally brought an announcement that promises to bring the age of quantum computing an undeniable step nearer to reality: The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) is ready to announce the first post-quantum cryptography standard. Nearly.
What does the news from NIST portend? Here are four issues to watch.
Issue 1: Defining a StandardTo its credit, NIST has long been conscious of the need for cryptographic algorithms that can stand up to attacks by quantum computers. More than three years ago, the Institute launched a program that invited proposals for just this kind of algorithm. Since then, there have been several rounds of selection in which the original 69 submissions were narrowed to 15. NIST then began its most recent round, aimed at providing a small subset of these algorithms forming a standard for organizations that are seeking post-quantum protection.
Once these candidates are chosen, NIST will also standardize the way that the algorithms should be implemented on a variety of systems. Standardization is important, because it will allow organizations to get sufficiently powerful encryption schemes in place ahead of the time they need them.
To see the value of this, you only have to look at the failings of the rollout of previous encryption standards. For example, in the recent rush to work from home in the wake ..
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