Future Challenges of Cryptographic Techniques in the Quantum Computing Era: Analysis and Strategies

Abstract

The emergence of quantum computing introduces an existential threat to conventional cryptographic algorithms that underpin modern digital security. Classical systems such as RSA, ECC, and AES are increasingly vulnerable due to their reliance on computational hardness assumptions that quantum algorithms, particularly Shor’s and Grover’s, can effectively break or weaken. This theoretical research provides a comprehensive analysis of the quantum threat landscape and evaluates the structural limitations of current cryptographic frameworks in resisting quantum-enabled attacks.

The study explores the fundamentals of quantum computation and illustrates how it disrupts traditional cryptographic models. It then examines state-of-the-art post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) alternatives, including lattice-based, code-based, multivariate, and hash-based systems, each of which offers varying levels of computational feasibility, security robustness, and implementation maturity.

This paper not only compares the effectiveness of classical and post-quantum algorithms through detailed tables and diagrams, but also highlights real-world applications of PQC in banking, e-government, healthcare, and IoT environments. Furthermore, it presents strategic future directions involving hybrid architectures, standardization efforts, and lightweight algorithm development to ensure continuity of digital trust in the quantum era. Ultimately, this work serves as a theoretical foundation for researchers, policymakers, and system designers committed to sustaining secure cryptographic infrastructure in a post-quantum world.