The rise of quantum computing presents a potential security threat to public-key cryptography, with the large-scale operation of quantum computers bearing the capacity to break this cryptographic method. This is a concern impacting governments, military operations, enterprises and mobile operators as they transition towards a quantum-safe future to safeguard sensitive information.

In light of this scenario, VIAVI Solutions has taken an innovative stance by introducing performance testing capability for Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) system deployments into its TeraVM Security Test. The integration of new cryptographic protocols could lead to an increase in network performance overhead, which could affect the end-user quality of experience.

The TeraVM Security Test, which is trusted by network security infrastructure vendors, governments, research institutes, and enterprises, can emulate large-scale user endpoint traffic applications over secure access connections while measuring individual traffic flow performance on a multivariate quality basis.

While the compendious operation of quantum computers is not expected to be actualised for several more years, it is important that systems are adapted to ensure the security of sensitive data. To this end, the U.S. federal government has nominated all existing public-key cryptographic systems, including network security devices like firewalls and Virtual Private Network (VPN) gateways, to make the shift to PQC.

Admittedly, the pressure is on. Organisations must accelerate the enhancement of their processes, systems, software, and services to evade threats where encrypted sensitive data could potentially be cracked. This 'Store Now, Decrypt Later' method, where information is saved for decryption at a later date when quantum computers are available, poses a significant hazard.

VIAVI has a substantial record in testing and assuring the quality of large-scale and complex networks globally, inclusive of security testing. TeraVM is a pioneering force in this field and is the first cloud-enabled test platform to support PQC algorithms required by the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST).

Further, the TeraVM Security Test allows companies to assess the performance of enterprise devices, content delivery networks, and endpoints that initiate or terminate IPSec Traffic using PQC. It is a software-based test tool that can operate on commercial-off-the-shelf (COTS) servers or on cloud platforms. TeraVM is trusted by network equipment manufacturers, network operators and research institutes for its proven testing capabilities and assessment of the performance effects of security layers.

Rounding off, Ian Langley, Senior Vice President and General Manager of the Wireless Business Unit at VIAVI, commented, "Our customers have announced significant initiatives to secure their networks from post-quantum threats without compromising their users' workday experience. TeraVM Security Test will give them confidence in their capabilities through rigorous testing using standardised algorithms, emulated users, real office applications and loaded networks."