Quantum computers are no longer a distant prospect. In 2026, governments and major technology companies worldwide are taking concrete steps toward quantum computing at scale. This has direct implications for the way you secure your network. Many of the encryption standards organizations rely on today cannot withstand the computing power of a fully operational quantum computer. The question is not whether you need to upgrade your cryptography, but when and how. These nine steps will help you build a quantum-safe network.
Why classical encryption falls short against quantum threats
Most current encryption protocols such as RSA and elliptic-curve cryptography are based on mathematical problems that are practically unsolvable for classical computers. A quantum computer, however, can tackle these problems exponentially faster. This undermines the mathematical foundation of a large portion of existing network security.
What makes this especially urgent is the so-called “harvest now, decrypt later” scenario. Attackers are already intercepting encrypted traffic today, intending to decrypt it once quantum capabilities become available. Sensitive data you transmit now could therefore be exposed in the future. Organizations that take no action today to improve their protection of sensitive data face a very real risk.
Step 1: Map your current cryptographic infrastructure
You cannot secure what you do not know. Start with a comprehensive inventory of all cryptographic components in your network: which algorithms are in use, on which systems, and for which purposes?
Think about VPN connections, TLS certificates, digital signatures, authentication protocols, and key management solutions. Many organizations discover during this phase that their cryptographic landscape is considerably more complex than expected. Outdated algorithms are sometimes buried deep within legacy systems or third-party integrations.
A detailed cryptographic inventory forms the foundation for all subsequent steps. Without this overview, targeted mitigation is impossible.
Step 2: Assess the risk level of each system
Not every system carries the same level of risk. Prioritize based on data sensitivity, the lifespan of the information, and how critical the system is to your operations.
Ask yourself three questions for each system: how long must this data remain confidential? How long will it take to migrate this system? And what are the consequences if this system is compromised? Systems with a long data lifespan and high business criticality deserve the highest priority.
This risk analysis prevents you from wasting resources on low-risk systems while vulnerable core infrastructure is left waiting.
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Step 3: Follow the NIST post-quantum standards
The U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) published its first official post-quantum cryptography standards in 2024. These standards are designed to withstand attacks from both classical and quantum computers.
The core algorithms are ML-KEM (formerly CRYSTALS-Kyber) for key encapsulation and ML-DSA (formerly CRYSTALS-Dilithium) for digital signatures. Make sure your roadmap aligns with these standards. Vendors of network equipment and security software are actively integrating these algorithms into their products.
By building on NIST-validated standards now, you avoid having to migrate to a different baseline all over again in a few years.
Step 4: Implement a crypto-agile architecture
Crypto-agility means your network is capable of switching cryptographic algorithms without requiring large-scale reconfiguration. This is one of the most future-proof investments you can make in your quantum network security strategy.
Build systems so that algorithms, key lengths, and protocols are modular. Avoid hardcoded cryptographic choices in applications or network components. A crypto-agile architecture allows you to respond quickly to new vulnerabilities or changes in standards, without having to replace your entire infrastructure.
This is not a one-time project. It is a design principle to carry forward into every new implementation from this point on.
Step 5: Upgrade VPN and TLS connections as a first priority
VPN tunnels and TLS connections are the most exposed attack vectors for quantum threats, as they are directly vulnerable to the “harvest now, decrypt later” risk. This makes them the first candidates for a post-quantum cryptography upgrade.
Check whether your VPN vendor already supports post-quantum key exchange. Many modern implementations support hybrid modes, in which classical and post-quantum algorithms are used in parallel. This provides protection now, while the broader migration is still underway.
TLS 1.3 is the minimum standard. Ensure that outdated versions of TLS and SSL are fully disabled across your environment.
Step 6: Secure the physical network layer with Layer 1/2 encryption
Encryption at the higher OSI layers protects data in transit, but leaves the physical layer exposed. Layer 1 and Layer 2 encryption secure data packets before they reach higher-level protocols, providing a fundamentally different and complementary layer of protection.
This is particularly relevant for organizations with critical fiber connections or point-to-point links between data centers. Layer 1 and Layer 2 encryption operates independently of higher-level protocols, making it more robust against attacks that attempt to bypass those upper layers. Explore our range of optical networking products designed to support exactly this kind of physical-layer security.
For sectors such as transportation, healthcare, and critical infrastructure, this is not a luxury. It is a necessity. Layer 1/2 encryption delivers maximum protection with minimal latency impact.
Step 7: Explore quantum key distribution for critical connections
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) uses the principles of quantum mechanics to exchange keys in a way that is physically impossible to intercept undetected. Any attempt at eavesdropping disturbs the system and is therefore immediately detectable.
QKD is currently still a specialized technology with higher implementation costs and infrastructure requirements. Nevertheless, for organizations with extremely high security demands such as government agencies, financial institutions, or critical infrastructure operators, it is well worth exploring.
Also consider the possibilities of protection against quantum threats in combination with your existing network architecture. QKD works most effectively as a complement to post-quantum cryptography, not as a replacement.
Step 8: Train your team on quantum security awareness
Technical measures are more effective when your team understands why they are necessary. Quantum security awareness goes beyond attending a one-time training session. It requires a structural shift in how your IT team thinks about cryptographic risk.
Ensure that security engineers, network administrators, and IT architects are familiar with post-quantum standards, the risks of legacy algorithms, and the implications for their day-to-day work. This prevents new systems from being designed with outdated cryptographic assumptions.
Involve management and decision-makers as well. Investment in quantum-safe infrastructure requires understanding and support at the strategic level.
Step 9: Establish a migration timeline and roadmap
A quantum-safe migration is not a sprint. It is a multi-year journey. A concrete roadmap with milestones, responsibilities, and budget estimates prevents the project from stalling in the planning phase.
Divide the migration into phases: inventory and risk analysis in year one, pilot implementations of post-quantum algorithms in critical systems in year two, and broad rollout in the years that follow. Tie each phase to measurable objectives so you can demonstrate progress.
Take into account the lifecycle of your current hardware and software. Replacement moments are often the most cost-effective opportunity to introduce quantum-safe alternatives. Also use monitoring and network management to maintain visibility into the status of your migration and the health of your secured environment.
From vulnerable to quantum-safe: the next step
The transition to a quantum-safe network is a complex undertaking, but it begins with concrete steps you can take today. The nine steps above provide a structured approach, from inventory to full rollout.
How we help with quantum security
We guide organizations through the complete transition to quantum-safe network infrastructure. Drawing on more than 20 years of experience in connectivity and physical network security, we translate complex security challenges into practical solutions tailored to your environment. Learn more about our managed services and how we support organizations at every stage of their security journey.
- Cryptographic inventory and risk analysis of your existing infrastructure
- Layer 1 and Layer 2 encryption for maximum protection at the physical network layer
- Quantum security solutions tailored to sectors such as healthcare, transportation, and critical infrastructure
- Vendor-independent advice with solutions from partners including Cisco, Nokia, and Huawei
- End-to-end support from design and implementation through to management and lifecycle management
Want to know where your organization stands today and which steps deserve priority? Get in touch and we will work together to define an approach that fits your situation.
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