In our previous articles, we’ve discussed what Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) is and why it’s important to start considering this transition now. With increasing guidance from organisations such as the National Cyber Security Centre urging organisations to start to prepare, today, let’s explore some practical, manageable steps you can take to smoothly transition to PQC.

Step 1: Discovery – Know Your Cryptographic Footprint

The first step in preparing for PQC is identifying exactly where and how your organisation currently uses cryptography. Consider:

• What systems and data are encrypted today? (Think emails, databases, cloud services, VPNs, remote working platforms.)
• Where are your cryptographic keys stored and managed?
• Who manages your cryptographic processes?

This inventory forms the basis of your transition plan and helps you clearly understand your vulnerabilities and priorities.

Step 2: Preparation – Build a Quantum-Safe Plan

Once you’ve mapped your cryptographic landscape, the next step is preparing your organisation for migration:

• Identify which systems are most critical and sensitive. These are your immediate priorities for transitioning.
• Understand new PQC standards and guidelines, such as those from NIST and the UK’s NCSC, to ensure compliance and interoperability.
• Ensure new procurements and updates are “quantum-ready.” Avoid purchasing technologies today that won’t easily support PQC in the future.

Step 3: Gradual Implementation – Transition Incrementally

Rather than an overwhelming switch, transitioning to PQC should be approached incrementally:

• Start with critical, high-risk systems first, upgrading encryption in stages.
• Consider a hybrid approach, combining PQC with existing classical cryptographic methods during transition, to provide additional layers of protection and ensure backward compatibility.
• Test new quantum-safe encryption methods to ensure compatibility and smooth operation.
• Gradually extend PQC upgrades across your entire infrastructure, allowing time for adjustments and learning along the way.

CyberHive Connect – Simplifying Your Quantum-Safe Transition

At CyberHive, we’ve anticipated the complexities of PQC transitions. Our solution, CyberHive Connect, is specifically designed to simplify and accelerate your journey towards quantum-safe cryptography. CyberHive Connect provides:

• Seamless integration, reducing the complexity of transitioning existing systems.
• Future-proofed encryption methods, ensuring your systems remain secure even as quantum computing evolves.
• Real-time management and monitoring, helping you maintain oversight of your cryptographic security posture.

With CyberHive Connect, becoming quantum-ready isn’t just achievable—it’s straightforward and manageable.

Final Thoughts

Transitioning to PQC is an essential part of maintaining your organisation’s long-term security. By taking these practical steps now, you’re not just preparing for future threats but strengthening your overall cybersecurity resilience.