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Palo Alto unveils quantum random number generation API

Yesterday

Palo Alto Networks has announced an Open API framework for quantum random number generation, aimed at assisting organisations to future-proof their systems for the quantum era.

The new framework, developed in collaboration with several partners including Quantinuum, seeks to address the increasing importance of randomness in cybersecurity today and as quantum technologies evolve. Quantinuum, a key partner in this initiative, has expressed its enthusiasm for the project.

Duncan Jones, Head of Cybersecurity at Quantinuum, stated, "The launch of the Open API initiative for quantum random number generation (QRNG) by Palo Alto Networks is a significant step forward in highlighting the key role that randomness plays in an organisation's security stack today and in the coming quantum age."

Jones further elaborated on Quantinuum's involvement in the project, noting, "Quantinuum is proud to be one of the six companies working with Palo Alto Networks on the co-designed Open API, which allows companies to invest and build in resilient QRNG-based systems."

According to Jones, the initiative is addressing long-standing challenges associated with QRNG systems. "By working together, this group of companies seeks to improve longstanding issues with QRNG systems, such as setting a common standard for access, enhancing the quality of randomness used in cryptographic operations, and having a collaborative, open approach," he explained.

He also provided details on the functionality of the new API: "To this end, the API works by providing a common mechanism for obtaining high-quality entropy from an external QRNG platform. These actions will collectively reduce barriers to adoption leading to greater migration from pseudo-random number generation (PRNG) to QRNG."

Quantinuum's Quantum Origin technology is central to this development. "Quantum Origin provides a software-based solution that delivers mathematically proven, unbiased randomness. Unlike conventional methods, Quantum Origin leverages quantum mechanics to generate verifiably high-entropy randomness and enhances the resilience of cryptographic systems against both current and future threats," Jones commented.

The emphasis on strengthening the security foundations of organisations before the widespread adoption of quantum technologies is vital. "It is critical that organizations learn about the value of randomness now before the coming quantum age. By adding randomness to complement post-quantum cryptography (PQC) and quantum key distribution (QKD), organizations are creating the best foundation for security in the post-quantum world," Jones concluded.

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