The quantum threat presented by schor's algorithm

Classical computers would take billions of years to factor the large numbers that secure RSA encryption. Quantum computers, however, can use Shor's algorithm to break these systems efficiently. The security of many cryptographic systems depends on the hardness of certain mathematical problems:

• RSA relies on the difficulty of factoring large numbers.
• ECC relies on the discrete logarithm problem.

Quantum computers can solve these problems exponentially faster than classical computers, effectively breaking these encryption systems.

The stark difference between classical and quantum computing power for breaking encryption:

Post-quantum cryptography (PQC) refers to cryptographic algorithms that are believed to be secure against attacks by quantum computers. These algorithms are designed to protect information from the increased computing capabilities that quantum technologies promise. 

• Lattice-Based: security based on the hardness of lattice problems like finding the shortest vector in a high-dimensional lattice (e.g. ML-KEM (Kyber), CRYSTALS-Dilithium).
• Hash-Based: security based on the properties of cryptographic hash functions (e.g. SPHINCS+, LMS, XMSS).
• Code-Based: security based on the hardness of decoding random linear codes (e.g. Classic McEliece, BIKE).
•  Multivariate: security based on the difficulty of solving systems of multivariate polynomials (e.g. Rainbow, GeMSS).

• Resistant to attacks by both classical and quantum computers
• Can be implemented on existing classical computing infrastructure
• Some algorithms offer better performance than current standards
• Provides forward secrecy - data encrypted today remains secure in the quantum era

Key Insight: The goal is not just to replace vulnerable algorithms, but to build cryptographic agility - the ability to switch between algorithms as security needs evolve.

QuantumShield™ is a tool designed by Quantum Solutions Technology, LLC to help organizations prepare for the quantum computing era by identifying and addressing cryptographic vulnerabilities. Our scanner detects cryptographic methods that are vulnerable to quantum attacks and provides recommendations for migration to post-quantum algorithms. 

 Quantum computers pose a significant threat to many of the cryptographic algorithms that secure our digital infrastructure. Algorithms based on factoring large numbers (like RSA) or discrete logarithm problems (like ECC and DSA) can be broken efficiently by quantum computers using Shor's algorithm.

Organizations need to start planning their migration to quantum-resistant algorithms now to ensure they're prepared for the quantum future. This is especially important for systems with long-term security requirements, as data encrypted today could be decrypted in the future when powerful quantum computers become available.

QuantumShield provides three key capabilities:

• Detection: scans source code, network traffic, and other materials to identify vulnerable cryptographic implementations. 
• Analysis: provides detailed reports with risk assessment and vulnerability locations. 
• Migration: recommends and assists with the implementation of post-quantum alternatives.

 QuantumShield recommends NIST standardized and finalist post-quantum algorithms, including:

• CRYSTALS-KYBER (ML-KEM)
• CRYSTALS-Dilithium (a lattice-based digital signature algorithm)
• FALCON (a lattice-based digital signature algorithm with compact signatures)
• SPHINCS+ (stateless hash-based signature scheme)