Why tomorrow’s technology needs today’s security solutions

Quantum computing has the potential to unlock new possibilities in areas such as healthcare, materials science and scientific research. At the same time, it also presents a new cyber security challenge. As quantum computers continue to develop, they could eventually threaten some of the encryption methods that protect our digital world.

Preparing for that future is already underway. Around the world, researchers, governments and businesses are working together to develop new forms of cryptography that can withstand quantum attacks. The Netherlands is playing a leading role in that international effort.

Thomas Attema, Researcher Cryptology at TNO and CWI, works at the intersection of research and application. CWI is the national research institute for mathematics and computer science in the Netherlands. And TNO, the Netherlands Organisation for Applied Scientific Research, helps governments and businesses translate scientific knowledge into practical solutions. In the field of post-quantum cryptography (PQC), that means supporting organisations as they prepare for one of the largest cyber security transitions in decades.

"Securing the quantum future isn't about one country developing its own solution. It's about building trusted international standards that everyone can use and helping organisations put them into practice." - Thomas Attema

Security through collaboration

Unlike many technologies, cryptography cannot stop at national borders. One of the main reasons why researchers from around the world work together to develop post-quantum cryptography is to ensure that new cryptographic algorithms are scrutinised as thoroughly as possible before they become international standards.

Rather than developing cryptography behind closed doors, researchers deliberately publish new algorithms so experts worldwide can analyse them, test them and even try to break them. This transparent process helps uncover weaknesses early and builds confidence that the final standards are robust enough to protect sensitive information.

While this may seem counterintuitive, openness actually strengthens security. As Attema explains, modern cryptography relies on keeping the encryption keys secret, not the design of the cryptographic algorithms themselves. The more experts examine a system, the greater the confidence that hidden weaknesses will be identified long before criminals can exploit them.

"Cryptography is developed internationally," says Attema. "That's essential because different countries need to be able to communicate securely with each other."

This international approach also ensures that governments, businesses and organisations around the world can communicate securely using compatible cryptographic standards.

Turning research into real-world solutions

Developing secure standards is only the beginning. The current challenge is implementing them across millions of existing digital systems. Unlike previous technology upgrades, post-quantum cryptography affects almost every part of modern society. Government services, financial systems, healthcare providers, manufacturers and critical infrastructure all depend on cryptography to protect sensitive information and verify digital identities.

Helping organisations navigate that transition is where applied research becomes essential. At TNO, Attema combines cryptographic research with practical advice for organisations preparing for migration. His work focuses on understanding how new cryptographic methods affect existing systems and translating complex research into concrete implementation strategies.

Alongside his role at TNO, Attema also conducts research at CWI, the Dutch research institute for mathematics and computer science. Together, these organisations illustrate one of the strengths of the Dutch innovation ecosystem: close collaboration between fundamental research and practical application.

That collaboration extends beyond research institutes. TNO worked together with CWI, AIVD and the Dutch National Cyber Security Centre to develop the PQC Migration Handbook, providing organisations with practical guidance on preparing for post-quantum security.

A Dutch ecosystem with global impact

"The Netherlands has built a strong reputation in cryptography over many decades," according to Attema. Together with partners from for example France and Germany, Dutch researchers have made important contributions to international standardisation efforts in post-quantum cryptography while maintaining expertise in both software and high-assurance hardware.

That expertise is reinforced by close cooperation between government, research institutes and industry. Across Europe, countries are sharing migration experiences, developing common guidance and working together on legislation that helps organisations prepare for the transition. Rather than competing, countries benefit by learning from one another's successes and challenges.

As organisations begin implementing post-quantum cryptography, they are building valuable practical experience. Sharing those lessons helps others prepare for migration, strengthens the wider ecosystem and supports a smoother transition.

Preparing together for the quantum era

Large-scale quantum computers capable of breaking today's encryption may still be years away, but Attema believes the transition should already be well underway. Replacing cryptography across digital infrastructure takes time. Previous cryptographic migrations lasted more than a decade, and today's digital landscape is significantly more complex. Preparing now allows organisations to strengthen their overall cyber security while avoiding a rushed transition later.

For Attema, success would mean more than completing the migration within the Netherlands. He hopes the country will become an international partner that continues to share its expertise and supports others facing the same challenge.

"I would hope that the Netherlands is a frontrunner in post-quantum cryptography migration, so that we can also advise and help other nations."

Quantum computing is often described as one of the defining technologies of the future. Ensuring society can benefit from it safely will depend on equally ambitious advances in cyber security. Through international collaboration, applied research and decades of expertise in cryptography, we are helping build the trusted digital foundations that the quantum era will require.