The Quantum Computing Epoch

As we stand on the brink of a new era in computing, quantum technology promises to revolutionise the way we process information. However, this advancement brings with it significant challenges in how we keep our data safe. This article from Celerity technical specialist Steve Laidler, delves into the growing cybersecurity challenges posed by quantum computing and what steps organisations can take today to prepare for a post-quantum future.

The Quantum Threat

Quantum computers operate on principles fundamentally different from the computers we know today, leveraging quantum bits (qubits) to perform complex calculations at unprecedented speeds. This capability, while promising to radically change application performance and functionality, also means that quantum computers can potentially break the encryption algorithms that protect our data. Traditional cryptographic methods, such as RSA, rely on mathematical problems that are difficult for current computers to solve but can be broken by quantum computers.

Preparing your IBM Power Systems for the Quantum Era

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has established a series of actions to facilitate the transition to Post Quantum Cryptography (PDQ). The initial milestone involves conducting an inventory of the algorithms currently in use across the organisation and developing a preliminary migration plan by 2028.

IBM Power Systems are known for their performance, scalability, and reliability. They are used to execute demanding workloads and are used by many industries requiring high availability and processing power. IBM PowerSC is often used to improve and maintain the security and compliance of these systems.

IBM PowerSC is a security and compliance solution optimized for virtualized environments on IBM Power servers running AIX, IBM i, or Linux. It integrates security features across different layers of the IBM Power server stack, allowing for centralized management of security and compliance on Power endpoints. One of the new features added to IBM PowerSC is a Quantum Safety Analysis. This delivers an inventory of your organisation’s cryptographic ciphers, certificates and keys on AIX endpoints, identifying those that are Quantum Safe and those that are not. The Quantum Safety Analysis is a good way to quickly understand the quantum landscape of your AIX estate and supports the activities set out by the NCSC.

Conclusion

The emergence of quantum computing introduces both prospects and complications. Although it offers potential advancements across multiple disciplines, it also requires a fundamental change in our approach to data security. By incorporating post-quantum cryptography and implementing robust security measures, we can protect our digital landscape from the challenges posed by quantum computing.

The National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) has provided a comprehensive roadmap for organisations to transition to post-quantum cryptography by 2035. This guidance underscores the significance of adopting quantum-resistant encryption methods to protect sensitive information from potential quantum computing threats. For most organisations, the initial step involves identifying risks and cataloguing susceptible encryption algorithms. IBM PowerSC streamlines the process for AIX environments.

Get in touch to learn how our managed security services and infrastructure expertise can help you build quantum resilience today.

Source: NSCS