The UK’s National Cyber Security Center (NCSC) has set a 2035 deadline for critical infrastructure operators to transition to post-quantum cryptography, anticipating the advent of quantum computers that could potentially compromise current encryption algorithms. In a recent advisory, the NCSC outlined a structured timeline aimed at technical decision-makers and risk owners within large organizations and operators of critical national infrastructure. The guidance includes a phased approach, urging organizations to assess their IT systems and draft a migration plan by 2028, transition high-priority systems by 2031, and complete the overall shift by 2035.

Emphasizing the importance of this transition, the NCSC suggests that organizations view this migration as a chance to enhance their overall cybersecurity resilience. Although quantum computing remains largely in the research phase, experts warn that the transition to post-quantum computing is urgent, as a “cryptanalytically relevant quantum computer” could emerge in the early 2030s. Such a computer would have the capability to decrypt information currently safeguarded by traditional encryption methods.

In response to these impending changes, the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) finalized three post-quantum encryption algorithms in August 2024, setting a precedent for cryptographic standards worldwide. Tech giants, including Google and Microsoft, are also preparing for this technological shift by integrating post-quantum capabilities into their products. The NCSC advises organizations to upgrade to platforms that support post-quantum cryptography, replacing outdated public key cryptography components and phasing out existing IT services.

One of the significant challenges highlighted by the NCSC is the replacement of existing web public key infrastructure and industrial control system protocols, due to their incompatibility with post-quantum cryptography. The agency recommends flexibility in migration plans to accommodate future developments in the ecosystem. Tim Callan, chief compliance officer at Sectigo, noted that systems reliant on RSA and ECC cryptographic algorithms would face difficulties in integrating new algorithms and would require substantial overhauls.

In conclusion, organizations are urged to begin their transition to post-quantum cryptography without delay to ensure security and compliance in the quantum era. While the task is challenging, early and strategic planning can facilitate a smooth transition, safeguarding critical infrastructure against future threats posed by quantum computing advancements.