NordVPN has taken a pioneering step by integrating post-quantum cryptography into its Linux application, underscoring its commitment to staying ahead of the curve in the VPN sector.
As concerns mount over the possibility of future quantum computers potentially breaching existing encryption standards, there is a growing risk that sensitive information could be compromised.
The newly launched NordVPN feature, introduced in late September, marks a significant milestone by integrating post-quantum cryptography into its trusted Nordlynx protocol. The implementation ensures compliance with the latest guidelines from the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST), specifically those related to quantum-resistant cryptography. While quantum computers capable of breaching current encryption may remain years off, this development marks a forward-thinking stride in cybersecurity.
The NordVPN team has developed a Linux application that acts as a testing ground for assessing the effects of post-quantum cryptography on connection instances and speeds, allowing them to gather valuable insights into this critical area of research. These details will shape the overall development of NordVPN’s comprehensive software package.
Quantum computing has already demonstrated its capacity to significantly outperform current methods by leveraging the principles of quantum mechanics to execute calculations. It is anticipated that quantum computers will simulate molecules to facilitate disease treatments, such as cancer, accelerate space exploration, and potentially breach traditional encryption methods.
Despite these advantages, supercomputers may ultimately pose even more critical risks than those associated with digital computers currently in use. As a result, the cybersecurity industry faces the daunting task of developing strategies to stay ahead of quantum computing’s unprecedented decryption capabilities?
To put this into perspective, modern encryption strategies, for instance those using elliptic curve cryptography or public-key cryptosystems, can take conventional computers an astonishingly long time – potentially years – to crack, whereas quantum computers could potentially bypass them in mere seconds, according to NordVPN.
As predicted by Marijus Briedis, CTO at NordVPN, cybercriminals may have already intensified their “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks. Dangerous individuals are striving to amass massive amounts of encrypted data, with the ultimate goal of quickly cracking the codes once quantum technology becomes available?
As a pioneering player in the VPN industry, NordVPN has taken a leading role in adopting post-quantum cryptography, reflecting a wider trend among prominent client VPN providers. Major technology companies and government agencies are investing in quantum-resistant technologies, acknowledging the imperative need to prepare for forthcoming cryptographic hurdles.
The shift towards post-quantum cryptography entails more than mere expedited security and flexibility, as it also necessitates fundamental changes to cryptographic protocols and infrastructure to ensure long-term resilience against potential quantum threats. With the introduction of this new encryption technology, we embark on a significant step towards ensuring the long-term security and protection of our valued customers’ data.
“With the launch of this new technology, we mark a significant milestone in our shift towards next-generation encryption across all our platforms, ensuring a long-term safeguard for our customers,” Briedi explained. Despite the urgency, implementing post-quantum encryption proves challenging.
The method’s complexity necessitates larger key sizes and signatures, which may result in increased computational burdens. This may undoubtedly impact VPN performance and efficiency, especially in high-throughput settings.
According to Briedis, the technical hurdles provide a compelling reason for a phased rollout. “We must ensure seamless customer experience throughout the transition, delivering exceptional service with minimal wait times.”
As the cryptographic landscape continuously evolves, NordVPN has prioritized developing crypto-agility, a strategic capability that enables swift adaptation to emerging cryptographic demands and standards. The corporation aims to position itself at the forefront of providing unbroken and secure quantum-resistant VPN connectivity whenever necessary.
