Secure Public Sector IT Systems

Legacy encryption, quantum reality

Conventional encryption technologies provide robust security against conventional attacks. But quantum computing will require an entirely new and unique set of complex mathematics, and the right deployment strategies, to protect personal – or national – security data and communication.

In addition, ‘store now, decrypt later’ strategy is already underway. Encrypted data can be harvest with the knowledge that future quantum computers will be able to unlock decades of protected data and communications. Public sector organisations know they urgently need solutions but face the overwhelming complexity of their digital infrastructure’s cryptographic backbone TNO offers specialised knowledge and expertise to navigate cryptographic inventorisation, algorithm selection, and migration.

Preparing for the quantum shift

TNO’s multidisciplinary expertise spans advanced cryptography, formal verification, operational technology security, and policy frameworks. We understand the mathematical complexity of post-quantum algorithms. We collaborate with public sector organisations, technology manufacturers, and standardisation bodies. Our solutions serve national interests, not commercial objectives.

We guide organisations through the complex transition to quantum-safe encryption before it becomes a critical need. We conduct practical testing of quantum-safe algorithms to determine the optimal solution for different systems and threat environments. Our research answers the crucial question: which cryptographic approach works best for each specific operational requirement?

Beyond traditional cryptography, we develop computer-aided cryptography solutions and formal verification tools that mathematically prove system security before deployment. In addition, our privacy-enhancing technology (PET) research enables secure data sharing across organisations without exposing sensitive information. This enables collaboration, even under the strictest confidentiality requirements.

Security-first methodology

TNO recognises that public sector organisations cannot implement untested cryptographic systems. National and citizen security depends on the reliability of these systems. Organisations need extensive validation to navigate the complex decision-making process. Our algorithm performance testing shows how post-quantum cryptographic systems enhance both security and operational efficiency. We demonstrate the benefits of potential systems before they are implemented.

Beyond outstanding security, early migration to post-quantum cryptography offers other benefits. The advanced security enables interoperability with other secure systems. It fully complies with strict regulatory requirements. TNO’s solutions also enable crypto agility: we ensure a system’s cryptography can evolve with the changing security landscape, migrate to new cryptographic solutions easily, and remain secure well into the future.

A quantum-secure future

The public sector faces a cryptographic inflection point. Organisations that proactively address post-quantum transitions and maintain operational excellence will lead the evolution to quantum-safe digital operations. And every moment of delay increases the risks of mounting vulnerabilities, non-compliance and lack of interoperability.

TNO helps organisations prepare for the post-quantum transition through:

• Comprehensive algorithm research tailored to public sector requirements and operational constraints.
• Migration methodology development that demonstrates post-quantum benefits without compromising security protocols.
• Cryptographic Asset Discovery methodologies that guide inventorisation and prioritisation of all cryptographic assets in complex, hybrid environments to build transition roadmaps.
• Performance validation studies that prove concepts across realistic operational environments before commercial deployment.

The future belongs to public sector organisations that transform post-quantum challenges into strategic advantages. TNO provides the cryptographic expertise, independence, and validation approach needed to make this transformation securely and systematically.

Want to know more about how TNO can help protect society in the quantum age? Contact us today to discuss your specific challenges in the evolving threat landscape.