Advanced Encryption Standard (AES)

What

AES is the encryption algorithm that protects most of the world's digital data today. Adopted by NIST in 2001, it processes data in 128-bit chunks using keys of 128, 192, or 256 bits. Here's what matters for quantum security: a quantum computer using Grover's algorithm can search through keys twice as fast as regular computers. That means AES-256 gives you 128-bit security in the quantum age, while AES-128 drops to 64-bit security. The fix is simple - use AES-256. QNu Labs builds this into our security platform because AES isn't going away, it just needs proper key management from quantum sources like our Tropos QRNG.

Why

Over 90% of encrypted data uses AES today. Unlike RSA and ECC which quantum computers will completely break, AES survives if you double the key length. It's fast, proven, and hardware-accelerated in modern processors.

Impact

AES remains your go-to for bulk data encryption in the quantum era. Combined with quantum-safe key distribution from QKD or post-quantum key exchange, it protects everything from VPN traffic to database encryption.

Use Cases

Encrypting data at rest in databases and cloud storage, securing VPN tunnels and network traffic, protecting mobile device data, financial transaction security, government classified data protection

Links

https://www.qnulabs.com/blog/ | https://www.qnulabs.com/qnu-labs-hybrid-approach-blending-quantum-and-post-quantum-cryptography-for-future-proof-security/

Tags

AES encryption, symmetric encryption, AES-256, quantum-resistant symmetric crypto, block cipher, NIST standard, data encryption, Grover algorithm, quantum-safe AES, encryption standard