Quantum computing threatens existing encryption like RSA and ECC, which Shor’s algorithm could break. Symmetric systems such as AES are safer but need longer keys. To prepare, NIST is standardizing Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) with algorithms like CRYSTALS-KYBER, Dilithium, FALCON, and SPHINCS+. Migration will bring larger keys, slower performance, and require crypto-agility via hybrid modes and re-encryption. NTT DATA advises inventorying cryptography, prioritizing sensitive data, and aligning with cloud providers. Mosca’s theorem highlights urgency: if migration time plus data confidentiality needs exceed the time quantum computers break encryption, action is critical.

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