Threat Intelligence

Chipmakers Race to Quantum-Proof Hardware as Future Threat Looms

Dark Reading · 21 Aug 2026

Key Takeaway When evaluating new IT hardware or software vendors, start asking whether they have a roadmap for post-quantum cryptography, as this will matter more as quantum computing advances.

Quantum computers powerful enough to break current encryption standards don't exist yet, but security experts warn that when they do, any data protected by today's algorithms could become vulnerable. In response, major technology and hardware companies are starting to build post-quantum cryptography (PQC) directly into their products, aiming to get ahead of the threat before it materialises.

This shift matters because encrypted data stolen today could potentially be decrypted years from now once quantum computing matures — a risk often referred to as 'harvest now, decrypt later'. By embedding quantum-resistant algorithms into hardware now, manufacturers hope to future-proof devices and systems against this looming risk.

For small and medium businesses, this transition is largely happening behind the scenes as vendors update their products. However, staying informed about which suppliers are adopting post-quantum standards will become increasingly important when choosing new hardware, software, or cloud services in the coming years.

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Summarised by CISO AI from Dark Reading. We link back to every original so you can read it yourself.