Quantum-Proof Security: PQShield & Carahsoft Partner to Bolster US Government Defenses

RESTON, VA – November 2, 2023 – In a move to fortify US government defenses against the evolving threat of quantum computing, cybersecurity firm PQShield has partnered with leading government IT solutions provider, Carahsoft. The collaboration aims to accelerate the adoption of post-quantum cryptography (PQC) across federal agencies and critical infrastructure sectors, protecting sensitive data and ensuring long-term security.

For years, experts have warned about the potential of quantum computers to break existing encryption algorithms – the digital locks safeguarding everything from financial transactions to national security secrets. While fully functional, large-scale quantum computers remain years away, the National Security Agency (NSA) has issued guidance urging organizations to begin transitioning to PQC now to avoid a “cryptographic winter” where data is vulnerable. The NSA has set a 2035 deadline for this transition, creating an urgent need for practical, scalable solutions.

“The threat is real, and the timeframe is tightening,” explains a cybersecurity expert familiar with the NSA’s PQC initiatives. “Organizations that wait until quantum computers become a present danger will already be behind. Proactive adoption is key.”

PQShield: Leading the Charge in Post-Quantum Cryptography

PQShield has been at the forefront of PQC development, actively participating in the NIST standardization process that recently selected several new algorithms to replace vulnerable standards. The company offers a suite of PQC solutions designed for diverse needs, including:

• PQPerform: A high-performance library optimized for speed, suitable for applications requiring rapid cryptographic operations.
• PQPlatform: A robust security platform focused on compliance and data protection.
• PQMicroLib: A compact library designed for resource-constrained environments, such as embedded systems and IoT devices.

“We’ve built our solutions from the ground up to be secure, performant, and scalable,” states a PQShield spokesperson. “We’re committed to helping organizations navigate the complex landscape of post-quantum cryptography.” Independent security audits, including Common Criteria certifications, validate the effectiveness of PQShield's products.

Carahsoft: Streamlining PQC Adoption for Government Agencies

Carahsoft, a trusted partner to countless government agencies, plays a crucial role in simplifying the procurement and implementation process. As a Master Government Aggregator, Carahsoft holds contracts with several major government purchasing vehicles, including SEWP V, OMNIA Partners, and E&I. This streamlines the process, reducing administrative burdens and accelerating access to critical technologies.

“Government agencies often face significant challenges when adopting new technologies, particularly in the realm of cybersecurity,” explains a government IT procurement officer. “Carahsoft’s ability to aggregate solutions and navigate the complex procurement process is invaluable. This partnership with PQShield makes adopting PQC significantly easier.”

Addressing the Urgency and Challenges of PQC Implementation

While the benefits of PQC are clear, implementing these new technologies isn't without its challenges. Replacing existing cryptographic infrastructure is a massive undertaking, requiring careful planning, extensive testing, and significant investment. Compatibility issues with legacy systems and the need for specialized expertise also pose hurdles.

“One of the biggest challenges is simply understanding where your current cryptographic vulnerabilities lie,” states a security consultant specializing in PQC. “Organizations need to conduct thorough risk assessments to identify critical systems and prioritize their migration to PQC.”

According to research, the transition to PQC isn't just a technical challenge—it’s also an organizational one. Agencies need to invest in training and education to ensure their staff understands the new technologies and can effectively manage the transition.

The Partnership: A Synergistic Approach

The partnership between PQShield and Carahsoft aims to address these challenges by providing a comprehensive, end-to-end solution. PQShield brings the advanced cryptographic expertise and cutting-edge PQC technologies, while Carahsoft provides the government contracting expertise, streamlined procurement processes, and extensive reach within federal agencies.

“This partnership allows us to deliver PQC solutions to government agencies quickly and efficiently,” states a Carahsoft executive. “We’re committed to helping them meet the 2035 deadline and protect their critical data.”

The collaboration will focus on several key areas, including:

• Pilot Projects: Working with select agencies to implement PQC solutions in real-world environments.
• Training and Education: Providing training and resources to help agencies understand and adopt PQC.
• System Integration: Assisting agencies with integrating PQC into their existing infrastructure.
• Ongoing Support: Providing ongoing support and maintenance to ensure the long-term security of PQC systems.

Looking Ahead: A Secure Future
The collaboration between PQShield and Carahsoft marks a significant step forward in securing the US government’s digital infrastructure against the threat of quantum computing. By combining cutting-edge technology with streamlined procurement processes, the partnership is well-positioned to help agencies meet the challenges of the post-quantum era and ensure a secure future for critical data. The combination of robust cryptographic algorithms and a simplified procurement process is a critical step toward a future where sensitive data remains protected even in the face of advanced computational capabilities.