POST-QUANTUM CRYPTOGRAPHY: TRANSITION STRATEGIES, CHALLENGES, AND FUTURE DIRECTIONS
Keywords:
Post-Quantum Cryptography, Quantum Computing, Cybersecurity, NIST, Cryptographic Transition, Quantum Attacks, Hybrid CryptographyAbstract
The rapid evolution of quantum computing is expected to significantly disrupt the security assumptions of current cryptographic systems. Most important widely used encryption methods depend on mathematical problems that are computationally intractable for classical machines but solvable via quantum algorithms like Shor's and Grovers ones. This new risk has triggered the advancement in Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC), which aims to create cryptographic systems that can be effective against both classical and quantum attacks while being suitable for existing digital infrastructures.
This paper presents a detailed study of prominent PQC approaches, including lattice-based, hash-based, and code-based techniques, along with their underlying principles, strengths, and limitations. It further examines global standardization efforts, particularly those initiated by NIST, and discusses practical considerations involved in transitioning from traditional cryptographic systems to quantum-resistant solutions. Key challenges such as increased computational cost, larger key sizes, and integration with legacy systems are critically analyzed. In addition, the paper highlights ongoing research trends and identifies areas that require further investigation to achieve efficient and scalable deployment of PQC in real-world environments.
