The article discusses the potential impact of quantum computing on cryptography and the development of quantum and post-quantum encryption standards. Quantum cryptography, based on the uncertainty principle, offers theoretically unbreakable encryption by detecting eavesdropping attempts. However, practical implementation has been challenging due to cost and noise issues.
NIST has been involved in quantum cryptography research, including quantum-key distribution (QKD) and secure communication applications. However, post-quantum encryption is seen as a more practical solution to protect against quantum computer threats, as it doesn’t rely on quantum properties and can be implemented on classical computers.
NIST is actively developing post-quantum algorithms and has called for public input to help develop future standards. The goal is to have secure encryption methods in place before quantum computers become capable of breaking current cryptographic systems.
Source: https://www.nist.gov/physics/introduction-new-quantum-revolution/cryptography-quantum-age
Keywords: Quantum, Cryptography, Eavesdropping, Keys, Post-quantum
