Impact of Quantum computing on 5G & 6G security

Ericsson's Perspective on Quantum-Safe Encryption: Ensuring Confidentiality in Networks

Executive Summary: Ericsson highlights the critical role of quantum-safe encryption in maintaining the confidentiality of mobile networks. The advent of quantum computing poses a significant threat to current cryptographic methods due to its ability to potentially break existing encryption algorithms, compromising the security of mobile communications.

Key Points:

1. Quantum Computing's Potential Impact: Quantum computing, while not yet widely available, holds immense potential to revolutionize fields such as finance, pharmaceuticals, and materials science through solving previously intractable computational problems faster. However, this capability also exposes vulnerabilities in current encryption methods, particularly those used in mobile networks.

2. Quantum-Resistant Cryptography (PQC): To address these vulnerabilities, the development of quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms (PQC) is crucial. These algorithms are designed to withstand attacks from both classical computers and future quantum computers, ensuring secure communication even in the presence of quantum computing capabilities.

3. Industry and Policy Recommendations: Ericsson advocates for broad international policy consensus on the implementation of quantum-resistant cryptography. This includes standardization efforts, intergovernmental coordination, and harmonization of solutions on a global scale to ensure security, cost-effectiveness, and interoperability across mobile networks.

4. Timeline and Development: The report outlines a timeline for the development of quantum technologies, cryptography, and mobile networks. It emphasizes the disparity in development cycles between these fields, suggesting that while quantum computing advancements may be rapid, the transition to quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms must be planned and executed over a longer timeframe.

5. Mitigation Strategies and Leverage: Ericsson discusses strategies for mitigating the risks posed by quantum computing, including the adoption of quantum-resistant cryptography. It also explores opportunities, such as quantum random number generation and quantum sensing, which could enhance operations, energy efficiency, and overall security of information and communication technology (ICT) systems.

Conclusion: Ericsson underscores the importance of proactive measures in anticipation of quantum computing's impact on mobile network security. By embracing quantum-resistant cryptographic solutions and fostering international cooperation, the industry can safeguard the confidentiality of communications and maintain the integrity of mobile networks in the face of emerging quantum computing technologies.