As quantum technology evolves, traditional encryption standards face unprecedented vulnerabilities, prompting Fortinet to introduce quantum-safe features that help protect sensitive data without compromising performance.
Quantum computers have the potential to execute complex calculations at remarkable speeds, which could render current encryption methods obsolete.
Cybercriminals are reportedly storing encrypted traffic with the intent to decrypt it in the future, particularly targeting sectors such as telecommunications, financial services, government, and healthcare where sensitive data can endure relevance over extended periods.
The latest iteration, FortiOS 7.6, equips organisations using FortiGate next-generation firewalls (NGFW) and Fortinet Secure SD-WAN with robust quantum-safe capabilities.
These include protections against “harvest-now, decrypt-later” (HNDL) attacks, which are increasingly prevalent as quantum technology advances. Key features introduced at no additional cost include:
- Post-quantum cryptography (PQC): This incorporates NIST-approved algorithms such as ML-KEM alongside emerging algorithms like BIKE, HQC, and Frodo, ensuring that encryption methods remain resilient against quantum decryption.
- Quantum key distribution (QKD): Leveraging quantum mechanics for secure key exchanges, QKD enables the detection of any eavesdropping attempts. Fortinet’s support for QKD integrations, introduced with FortiOS 7.4, allows seamless interoperability with leading QKD vendors.
- Algorithm stacking: This innovative method combines multiple cryptographic algorithms, creating a fortified security solution that enhances the overall resilience of network infrastructure.
- Hybrid mode: This feature allows a gradual transition to post-quantum security by integrating traditional public-key cryptography with QKD, ensuring a smooth evolution of security practices.
- Enhanced user interface: The updated interface simplifies the configuration and management of quantum-safe settings, allowing network administrators to implement these advanced security measures with ease.
As organisations increasingly seek to fortify their defences against quantum threats, Fortinet's proactive approach underscores the importance of transitioning to quantum-safe security.
With these innovations, companies can better safeguard their critical data, ensuring they remain resilient in an era where quantum computing presents new challenges.
As Michael Xie, Fortinet’s founder and CTO, emphasises, the commitment to technological advancement is vital for protecting sensitive information against tomorrow's threats.
