Last week, Google revealed the Willow chip, a breakthrough in quantum computing capable of solving problems that would take 10 septillion years in less than five minutes. This breakthrough validates the imminent arrival of quantum computing and intensifies the urgency of adopting solutions such as Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) to protect critical systems and data.
While quantum computing advances, traditional cryptography based on RSA and ECC becomes vulnerable. As a result, PQC has become a necessary transformation in how companies view digital security. In today’s article, we’ll talk about how Post-Quantum Cryptography can prepare large companies to face the challenges posed by this new era and prevent their most sensitive data from being at the mercy of a quantum future.
Post-Quantum Cryptography and the warning brought by Willow
The breakthrough of Google’s Willow chip represents a milestone in quantum computing, showing that it’s possible to scale qubits without compromising precision. Willow solves quantum computing’s biggest obstacle: the instability caused by increasing the number of qubits, which raises error rates to impractical levels. By combining greater stability with significantly faster calculations, it paves the way for solving problems such as molecular modeling, logistical optimization, and, above all, breaking encryption at unprecedented speeds.
This progress reinforces the need to adopt Post-Quantum Cryptography. More than theoretical speculation, PQC is a practical response to the quantum threat, especially in the face of the “harvest now, decrypt later” phenomenon already exploited by malicious groups. This means that data encrypted today is vulnerable to being broken by quantum computers in the future, compromising financial, health, and other highly sensitive information.
For large companies, PQC becomes a proactive digital protection and leadership strategy, positioning organizations at the forefront of cybersecurity.
Strategies for adopting Post-Quantum Cryptography
According to Gartner, post-quantum cryptography is one of the main strategic trends for 2025. With a responsible innovation bias, PQC has emerged as the main solution for mitigating the risks associated with the vulnerability of classic algorithms, such as RSA and ECC. However, its transition requires detailed analysis, practical experimentation, and agile implementation.
1. Detailed cryptographic inventory
The first step is to map the entire security infrastructure to identify where vulnerable algorithms are being used. This includes mapping digital certificates, hardware security modules (HSMs), and certificate lifecycle management (CLM) systems. This analysis is essential to ensure that these components are compatible with post-quantum algorithms, such as those standardized by NIST. A well-structured inventory facilitates the creation of a strategic plan to replace or complement these technologies with quantum-resistant alternatives.
2. Experiments with post-quantum algorithms
Testing post-quantum algorithms in controlled environments makes it possible to anticipate implementation challenges and adapt systems safely. Solutions such as CRYSTALS-Kyber and Dilithium, recommended by NIST, are ideal for getting started. These algorithms offer robust key encapsulation and digital signatures, which can be integrated into pilot projects before full implementation. For specific cases, such as authentication and key exchange, lattice-based algorithms or solutions, such as SPHINCS+ are also effective options.
3. Cryptographic agility
The complete transition to post-quantum cryptography will be a gradual process. Adopting a hybrid approach, combining classic algorithms with post-quantum alternatives, ensures continuous protection while new technologies are integrated. This flexibility, known as cryptographic agility, allows companies to update their systems as standards evolve, minimizing risks and disruptions.
The influence of Willow on company preparedness
Willow’s advance highlights the need for strategic and proactive planning. Large companies can learn from the lessons of classical computing: legacy systems are often the first to become vulnerable when new paradigms emerge. The challenge is to protect sensitive data today and to ensure that systems can adapt to future quantum advances. This preparation includes:
- Investing in internal research and partnerships with technology leaders: Working closely alongside quantum computing pioneers can accelerate the adaptation process.
- Empowering IT and cybersecurity teams: Ensure that people understand the concepts of quantum computing and know how to implement post-quantum solutions.
- Explore the potential of new quantum benchmarks: While RCS has no direct commercial application, it demonstrates capabilities that will eventually be applicable in areas such as financial modeling and scientific simulations.
The opportunity for disruption
While quantum computing presents threats, it also opens doors for innovation. Companies that lead the transition to the quantum age will have a significant competitive advantage. It’s not just about protecting data but rethinking processes, creating new business models, and using quantum capabilities to solve problems previously considered unsolvable.
For example, sectors like health, manufacturing, and logistics can use quantum computing to accelerate scientific discoveries, optimize supply chains, and predict consumption patterns with unprecedented precision. To this end, it’s essential to invest in quantum technology not just as a defense mechanism, but as a strategic tool.
The advance of Willow is a milestone that requires a change of mentality in the corporate world. Large companies must adopt a proactive approach, starting now to re-evaluate their security infrastructures and experiment with post-quantum solutions. If you want to get ahead, talk to one of our experts and find out how to use innovation to shape the future of your business in a secure and innovative way.
