Quantum Frontier: DigiCert - Insights on PQC certificates

In the ever-growing scene of digital security, quantum computing promises a revolution, but it also poses a huge threat to Cyber Security. DigiCert, a global leader in TLS/SSL and digital certificates, commissioned the 2019 Post-Quantum Crypto Survey to find out the industry's awareness, readiness, and concerns regarding the inevitable impact of quantum computing on Cyber Security. With this article, we dive into the survey's findings, shedding light on the current situation of quantum readiness and the proactive steps enterprises can take to secure their digital future.

Quantum Computing: Promises and Threats

IBM's Quantum Leap

The introduction of IBM's Q System One in 2019 marked a big milestone in quantum computing. While full commercial availability is on the horizon, the promises of quantum computing in fields like machine learning, medical sciences, and particle physics are captivating. However, the other side revealed a threat: the ability of quantum computers to break today's most encryption algorithms, a threat that NIST and other leaders predict will materialize within the next few years.

Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)

To counteract the impending threat, the industry must develop new security algorithms, known as Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC). However, PQC alone may not be sufficient, especially for products like IoT devices with extended life cycles. The 2019 survey shows the urgency for businesses to address quantum threats today and offers a call to action for industry-wide preparedness.

Unveiling Industry Awareness and Readiness

PQC Awareness

The survey reveals a awareness of PQC among IT professionals in enterprises, with seven in ten claiming to be "somewhat" aware. However, a deeper dive into understanding the concept of PQC reveals a knowledge gap, showing that education and clarity are needed in navigating the quantum landscape.

Recognizing the Threat

Despite the confusion, IT professionals recognize the immediate threat posed by quantum computing. More than 50% believe it is a significant threat today, with an even higher percentage anticipating a big threat in the future. The survey sheds light on when IT professionals foresee the need for PQC.

Preparing for the Quantum time

Budgeting for PQC

Companies are beginning to allocate budgets for PQC, with a third already having a budget and another 56% in the process of establishing one. The survey indicates that most enterprises view their PQC budgets as extremely large, indicating the gravity of the quantum threat.

Mitigation Strategies

Top tactics employed by IT professionals include monitoring, understanding their organization's crypto-agility, and assessing their current risk levels. The survey highlights the need for enterprises to be rapid in transitioning to PQC certificates quickly and efficiently when the time comes.

Facing Challenges and Looking Ahead

Quantum Computing Risks and Benefits

IT professionals accept the potential benefits of winning the quantum fight, such as improved security and enhanced crypto-agility. However, they also recognize challenges, with cost and a lack of information identified as significant hurdles.

DigiCert's Suggestions

As per the survey findings, DigiCert offers strategic recommendations for enterprises to navigate the quantum landscape. These include understanding quantum risk, establishing crypto-agility, and collaborating with leading vendors to implement best practices.

Conclusion: DigiCert Leading the Way

In the face of quantum's promises and threats, DigiCert emerges as a guiding force, actively contributing to industry awareness and readiness. As enterprises navigate the quantum frontier, DigiCert's recommendations provide a strategy for securing digital trust in the post-quantum age. Embrace the quantum future with confidence, backed by the expertise and insights of DigiCert – your partner in the journey to a secure digital future.