Many see quantum computers as a way to accelerate the processing of increasingly complex data sets in an increasingly data-driven world. However, these systems have serious drawbacks. They do not transfer information securely. One of the greatest concerns is quantum computers’ ability to crack most forms of current encryption. This issue will be discussed in Tuesday’s DesignCon keynote: “Post-Quantum Cryptography: The Next Decade of Cryptographic Hardware Design.”
Aydin Aysu is Assistant Professor and Head of the Hardware Cybersecurity Research Lab at North Carolina University. She expressed concern that quantum computers might threaten existing cryptographic methods that are used in all sectors of society, such as financial and banking networks, national security, and other mission-critical applications. Future quantum computer developments will only make it more difficult for sensitive information to be recorded, and lead to even more data being stolen.
Aysu stated that organizations such as NIST, the National Institute of Standards and Technology, are trying to address the problem. NIST’s mission since 2017 has been to propose new cryptographic algorithms to protect against quantum computing attacks. Google and Microsoft have been active in their efforts to develop products with updated cryptographic algorithms.
Some algorithms currently under development employ number theoretic transformer techniques, which are similar in function to fast Fourier transformation techniques. Other algorithms employ precision Gaussian samples.
Aysu said that cryptographic issues will not be solved if hardware companies do not update their algorithms. It is necessary to update hardware in order to support lattice-based cryptography. This encryption technique allows computers to be used without knowing their secret key. Aysu pointed out that this method requires substantial hardware and programming development in order for it to become practical.
The challenges are immense and could take years. Aysu had previously spoken out to Design News about the difficulty of phasing in new cryptography without compromising the integrity of the existing cryptographic architecture. Aysu stated, “We will probably have to encrypt both old and new algorithms as we transition.”
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