NIST’s Post-Quantum Cryptography Standards - Schneier on Security

The article discusses NIST’s efforts to create a post-quantum cryptographic standard resistant to quantum computing. Quantum computers could potentially break existing RSA and Diffie-Hellman public-key algorithms. NIST began a competition in 2016 to find new encryption and signature algorithms that are quantum-resistant. The process involves multiple rounds of submissions, testing, and elimination, with the goal of standardizing resistant algorithms before quantum computers become practically functional. Recent cryptanalysis results have shown vulnerabilities in some of the Round 3 finalist algorithms. The article emphasizes the need for cryptographic agility, allowing systems to easily swap in new algorithms as needed due to advances in mathematics and understanding of quantum computing’s strengths and limitations.