Post-Quantum Cryptography and the Future of Government Security
Quantum computing is no longer a distant frontier, a reality recently reinforced by the 2025 Physics Nobel Prize winners. While Professor John Clarke, one of the three new laureates, described the recognition as the “surprise of his life” few in the technology community were caught off guard. Their work forms the backbone of the breakthroughs driving quantum research forward today. Clarke explained, “This is something that leads to the development of the quantum computer. Many people are working on quantum computing, our discovery is in many ways the basis of this.” With this recognition, the conversation has shifted from if quantum computing will reshape industries to when, and most importantly, how leaders can prepare for its impact with post-quantum cryptography (PQC). For decades, encryption algorithms have safeguarded sensitive data across government and industry. Experts, however, warn that once quantum computers reach full capability, those same protections could be rendered obsolete. In the latest episode of the Government Technology Insider Podcast, Cloudflare’s Anish Patel, Head of Federal Sales, and Dr. Sharon Goldberg, Product Director and cryptography expert, explore what a “post-quantum” world looks like and what it means for government systems that hold decades of sensitive and mission-critical data. Patel and Goldberg emphasize that the threat isn’t science fiction; it’s about readiness. Data being created and stored today could remain relevant for 10, 20, or even 50 years from now. If that information is intercepted and stored, it could be decrypted later once quantum capabilities mature. The challenge, then, goes beyond future-proofing to protecting the present against future threats. That’s where post-quantum cryptography (PQC) comes in. PQC represents a new generation of encryption designed to withstand quantum-level attacks. Transitioning to these standards will take time, planning, and collaboration across agencies and technology partners. As Patel and Goldberg note, this isn’t a “flip the switch” moment. Instead, it’s an opportunity for strategic transformation that touches infrastructure, policy, and culture alike. Quantum computing promises incredible possibilities for science, innovation, and discovery. But it also challenges long-held assumptions about security and trust. Forward-looking leaders understand that preparing for the quantum era is both a technical necessity and a matter of national resilience.
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