Quantum-proofing telecom networks before the storm hits

As quantum threats edge closer, telecom networks must act now to defend sensitive data with hybrid cryptography and quantum-safe strategies.

- BY DAVID CLOSE

As the era of quantum computing approaches, telecom networks and critical digital infrastructure face a fundamental rethinking of how secure communication is managed.

Although practical quantum computers capable of breaking today's public key encryption may still be a decade away, the threat is already forming through “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks.

Malicious actors are intercepting and storing encrypted traffic today, with the intent to decrypt it in the future. This means data protected now by conventional cryptographic systems could be compromised once quantum machines become viable, making proactive defences not optional, but essential.

The telecom sector—encompassing mobile network operators, ISPs, and 5G infrastructure providers—faces a unique risk. These systems must ensure the long-term confidentiality, integrity, and availability of sensitive information, yet much of the industry still depends on classical encryption methods such as RSA and ECC. These older algorithms are deeply embedded but will eventually fall short in a post-quantum environment.

THE CALM BEFORE THE QUANTUM STORM

Key telecom assets-such as control plane signalling, subscriber identities, and spectrum authorisation credentials-are not ephemeral. If compromised, they could undermine network resilience, consumer privacy, and even national security. Already, adversaries are banking on future quantum decryption by collecting traffic now, underlining the urgency for change.

Experts predict that practical quantum computers may emerge between 2035 and 2040. However, because post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) defences cannot be retrofitted to historical data, networks must begin adapting now. Quantum readiness is not merely a best practice—it is a strategic necessity.

COMPLEXITY OF PQC IN TELECOM ENVIRONMENTS