Much of today's internet security relies on math problems that are hard for ordinary computers. A sufficiently powerful quantum computer is expected to solve some of those problems, which is why standards bodies have been developing post-quantum cryptography, replacement algorithms built to resist those attacks.

What is post-quantum cryptography?

Post-quantum cryptography refers to encryption designed to resist both classical and quantum attacks. It runs on regular computers, no quantum hardware required. Early standards have been published, and browsers, cloud providers and software libraries are gradually adding support.

Why not wait?

Information with a long shelf life, such as medical, legal or financial records, can be copied today and decrypted years from now. That "harvest now, decrypt later" concern is why planning early is sensible, even though the threat is not immediate.

Practical steps for your business

Keep your hosting, TLS configuration, CMS and dependencies current, because that is how new algorithms reach you. Know where your applications use encryption, certificates and keys, including third-party integrations and APIs. Ask your vendors about their post-quantum plans. And avoid storing sensitive data you do not need.

A simple readiness checklist

First, list every place your website and apps handle encryption: your TLS certificates, payment and form integrations, logins, stored backups and any APIs connecting to partners. Second, note which data must stay confidential for many years, such as client records or contracts. Third, confirm your platform and plugins receive regular updates. Fourth, ask each vendor on that list for their post-quantum timeline. Finally, review the list once or twice a year.

What not to do

Do not buy a product marketed as quantum-proof without independent verification, and do not rip out working systems to chase a future risk. Steady maintenance and following published standards beats any rushed project.

Where we fit

We build and maintain websites and applications, so we can help with the unglamorous part: updates, secure integrations and a clear inventory of what your software depends on. We are not a cryptography research lab, and for specialized compliance questions we will tell you when to bring in a security specialist. See our quantum readiness overview for more, or start with what quantum computing is.