Quantum-Resilient Key Management Infrastructure
Naman Jain , Senior Software Development Engineer Seattle, Washington, USAAbstract
Within the scope of the study an analysis of a quantum-resistant key management infrastructure (KMI) is conducted. Key Management Infrastructure, in this context, encompasses cloud services, on-premises HSM clusters, and hybrid or edge solutions. Asymmetric algorithms underpinning modern protection protocols demonstrate vulnerability to quantum methods of Shor and Grover. The objective of this study is to perform a holistic reference architecture for KMI that enables a seamless and secure transition from classical to post-quantum solutions. The methodology includes a systematic analysis of existing KMI architectures, a detailed evaluation of algorithms standardized by NIST for post-quantum cryptography, as well as the modeling of a hybrid cryptographic scheme. As a result, a multi-layer architectural model is proposed, featuring a “Crypto-Agility Engine” for dynamic algorithm replacement, hybrid key encapsulation protocols and a phased migration strategy to post-quantum primitives. The model maintains backward compatibility with legacy systems, minimizes the load on mission-critical components such as fintech platforms and ensures an unchanged level of performance. The study conclusions confirm the practical feasibility of this approach for long-term protection of data confidentiality and integrity in the post-quantum era. This work is of interest to information security architects, software engineers and specialists engaged in the protection of critically important information across diverse infrastructures.
Keywords
post-quantum cryptography, key management, crypto-agility, quantum threat, PQC, hybrid encryption, security architecture, cybersecurity, data protection, compliance
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