Quantum Threats Are Coming.
Get Ready Now.

Quantum computing cybersecurity is the practice of protecting data, networks, and cryptographic systems against threats posed by quantum computers. Current public-key encryption algorithms like RSA and ECC will be broken by quantum computers using Shor's algorithm. Quantum computing cybersecurity encompasses threat assessment, post-quantum cryptography migration, crypto agility implementation, and ongoing monitoring to ensure organizations remain protected as quantum technology advances. Petronella Technology Group, Inc. provides end-to-end quantum computing cybersecurity services for businesses in regulated industries.

Expert estimates range from 2029 to 2035 for a cryptographically relevant quantum computer (CRQC) capable of breaking RSA-2048. Google set a 2029 PQC migration deadline on March 25, 2026. The Global Risk Institute's 2024 survey found that over 50% of experts believe there is a significant probability of a CRQC by 2034. However, the harvest now, decrypt later threat means encrypted data intercepted today could be decrypted retroactively. For data that must remain confidential beyond 2030, the threat is already active.

Harvest now, decrypt later (HNDL), also called "store now, decrypt later," is an attack strategy where adversaries intercept and store encrypted data today with the intent to decrypt it once quantum computers become available. Nation-state actors are particularly active in HNDL campaigns targeting defense contractors, healthcare organizations, financial institutions, and government agencies. The NSA has publicly acknowledged this threat. Any data encrypted with RSA or ECC that must remain confidential for more than 5-10 years is at risk from HNDL attacks happening right now. Read our complete HNDL guide for a detailed threat assessment.

NIST standardized three post-quantum cryptography algorithms in August 2024. ML-KEM (FIPS 203), based on the CRYSTALS-Kyber lattice scheme, is the primary recommendation for key encapsulation (replacing RSA and ECDH key exchange). ML-DSA (FIPS 204), based on CRYSTALS-Dilithium, is the primary recommendation for digital signatures (replacing RSA and ECDSA signing). SLH-DSA (FIPS 205), based on SPHINCS+, provides a hash-based signature alternative for organizations that want defense-in-depth against potential lattice vulnerabilities. PTG recommends starting with ML-KEM and ML-DSA for most organizations, with SLH-DSA for high-assurance environments. Hybrid classical+PQC deployments are recommended during the transition period.

Yes, AES-256 is considered quantum-safe. Grover's algorithm provides a quadratic speedup for brute-force searches, effectively halving the security level of symmetric algorithms. AES-256 retains 128 bits of security against quantum attack, which remains computationally infeasible. AES-128, however, drops to 64 bits of quantum security, which is not sufficient. NIST recommends AES-256 for quantum-safe symmetric encryption. The critical vulnerability is in your public-key infrastructure (RSA, ECC, Diffie-Hellman), not your symmetric encryption, assuming you are already using AES-256.

A quantum readiness assessment is a systematic evaluation of your organization's cryptographic posture against quantum threats. It includes: (1) a complete cryptographic inventory identifying every algorithm, key, certificate, and protocol in your environment; (2) a risk assessment based on data sensitivity, regulatory requirements, and HNDL exposure; (3) a gap analysis against relevant compliance frameworks (CNSA 2.0, CMMC, HIPAA, PCI DSS); and (4) a prioritized migration roadmap with timelines, resource requirements, and budget estimates. PTG's assessments use AI-powered scanning tools to complete the inventory phase in days rather than months. The initial consultation is free.

CMMC 2.0 is built on NIST SP 800-171, which requires FIPS-validated cryptography for CUI protection. As NIST transitions its validation program to include PQC algorithms and deprecate quantum-vulnerable ones, CMMC compliance will increasingly require quantum-resistant cryptography. Defense contractors who proactively migrate to PQC will be ahead of their competitors when these requirements formalize. NSA CNSA 2.0 already mandates quantum-resistant algorithms for National Security Systems by January 2027. PTG's CMMC-RP and CCA credentials ensure your PQC migration documentation aligns with what CMMC assessors expect.

Costs vary by organization size, complexity, and regulatory requirements. A quantum readiness assessment for a 50-200 employee organization typically completes in 2-4 weeks. Full PQC migration for an SMB ranges from 3-12 months depending on the number of cryptographic dependencies, compliance frameworks in scope, and vendor coordination required. PTG provides right-sized engagements for SMBs and mid-market firms, unlike national consulting firms that start at $150K-$300K. The initial quantum readiness consultation is free with no obligation. Call 919-348-4912 to discuss your specific situation.

Crypto agility is the ability to swap cryptographic algorithms in your infrastructure without rewriting applications or re-architecting systems. NIST published formal crypto agility guidance in CSWP 39 (December 2025) because the PQC landscape will continue to evolve. New algorithms may be standardized; existing ones may face unexpected vulnerabilities. Organizations that build crypto agility into their migration today avoid repeating the multi-year, multi-million-dollar migration process every time the cryptographic landscape shifts. PTG's crypto agility consulting implements abstraction layers, algorithm negotiation mechanisms, and configuration-driven crypto selection across your stack.

PTG provides end-to-end quantum readiness services: quantum readiness assessments with AI-powered cryptographic discovery, PQC migration planning and implementation, crypto agility consulting based on NIST CSWP 39, compliance audits against CNSA 2.0 and CMMC requirements, and industry-specific programs for healthcare, defense, financial services, and government. CEO Craig Petronella holds CMMC-RP and CCA credentials, is a Licensed Digital Forensic Examiner, and has published 15 books. BBB A+ rated since 2003. Schedule your free consultation to get started.