SBOM (Software Bill of Materials)

A Software Bill of Materials (SBOM) is a comprehensive inventory listing all software components, dependencies, libraries, and modules used in an application or system. Think of it as an ingredients label for software—it documents every open-source library, third-party component, proprietary code module, and their versions. SBOM enables organizations to understand what software they have, manage dependencies, and track software supply chain risks more effectively, especially when vulnerabilities or new security threats emerge.

In the context of quantum security, SBOM becomes essential for identifying components that use quantum-vulnerable cryptography. When organizations create their Cryptographic Bill of Materials (CBOM), they first need an SBOM to understand the software landscape and the cryptographic algorithms each piece uses. Some components may rely on RSA or ECC (quantum-vulnerable), while others might already implement quantum-safe algorithms. SBOM helps security teams prioritize updates, coordinate with suppliers, and plan systematic migrations toward quantum-safe infrastructure.

Without knowing what software you have, you cannot secure it. The 2021 SolarWinds attack and the Log4j vulnerability highlighted how deeply software supply chains can be compromised. These incidents exposed how hidden dependencies and outdated components create entry points for attackers. Without visibility into every layer of the software stack, organizations risk leaving critical vulnerabilities unaddressed.

Quantum threats further amplify this challenge. Attackers can already harvest encrypted data from systems using quantum-vulnerable cryptography, intending to decrypt it once quantum computers mature. An SBOM provides the essential visibility to identify such exposures, prioritize remediation, and verify vendor claims about quantum readiness. It enables proactive risk management across the entire software ecosystem, making it a cornerstone of future-proof cybersecurity strategy.

Organizations with a comprehensive SBOM can respond to vulnerabilities up to 60% faster than those without one. For quantum migration, this visibility enables proactive and systematic planning instead of reactive crisis management. SBOM helps uncover hidden dependencies—such as critical applications relying on obscure libraries that still use vulnerable RSA keys—allowing security teams to prioritize upgrades and address risks before they escalate.

Beyond its technical value, SBOM is rapidly becoming a regulatory requirement. In the United States, Executive Order 14028 mandates the use of SBOMs for all federal software purchases. Similarly, the European Union’s Cyber Resilience Act will require SBOMs for software products sold within Europe. These mandates signal a global recognition that software transparency is foundational for cybersecurity, supply chain integrity, and readiness for quantum-era threats.