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Security Fundamentals & Crypto · Intermediate

Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC)

Classical cryptographic algorithms designed to resist attacks by both classical and quantum computers.

Definition

PQC replaces quantum-vulnerable public key algorithms such as RSA, Diffie-Hellman, and ECC. In August 2024 NIST published FIPS 203 (ML-KEM), FIPS 204 (ML-DSA), and FIPS 205 (SLH-DSA), with FN-DSA and HQC to follow. PQC runs on ordinary computers and is distinct from quantum key distribution.

Example

Chrome, Cloudflare, and OpenSSH now negotiate hybrid ML-KEM key exchange by default.

Exam tip

PQC is software on classical hardware; QKD needs special quantum hardware. Symmetric AES-256 remains acceptable.

Don't confuse it with

Related terms