Post-Quantum Cryptography in 2026: What Infrastructure Leaders Need to Know
The quantum threat is no longer theoretical. As we look toward 2026, CTOs and CIOs responsible for network and IT infrastructure face a critical inflection point. The transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC) will shift from optional to essential. Here are five predictions that should shape your strategic planning today.
The CRQC Race Accelerates
Expect a surge in vendor announcements claiming cryptographically relevant quantum computer (CRQC) capabilities within five years. PsiQuantum’s billion-dollar funding round to build million-qubit fault-tolerant systems and Quantinuum’s breakthrough demonstrations signal an industry reaching critical mass. While debate continues about timelines, the message for infrastructure leaders is clear. The assumption of having 5 -10 years to prepare is no longer a defensible risk posture. Major cloud providers, defense contractors, and nation-states are investing heavily in quantum capabilities, compressing the timeline considerably.
Regulatory Mandates Emerge
In 2026 we will see the first wave of binding PQC compliance requirements. Following NIST’s standardization of quantum-resistant algorithms in 2024, regulatory bodies worldwide are developing enforcement timelines. Financial services, healthcare, and critical infrastructure sectors should expect mandates requiring PQC migration roadmaps, with government contractors facing the strictest deadlines. The question isn’t whether to migrate, but whether you can demonstrate a credible transition plan to auditors and regulators.
Hybrid Cryptographic Architectures Become Standard
Pure quantum-resistant deployments will remain rare in 2026. Instead, hybrid approaches combining classical and post-quantum algorithms will dominate enterprise implementations. This pragmatic strategy provides defense-in-depth while allowing organizations to maintain operations with current and legacy systems. Your networking teams should begin evaluating hardware and software platforms that support cryptographic agility. The ability to swap algorithms without architectural redesign is critical as algorithms will now require management.
Supply Chain Visibility Becomes Critical
The “harvest now, decrypt later” threat means adversaries are already capturing encrypted traffic for future exploitation. In 2026, sophisticated attackers will increasingly target supply chain partners with weaker cryptographic postures. CTOs must expand their PQC assessments beyond internal systems to encompass vendors, contractors, and partners. Third-party risk management frameworks will need explicit quantum-readiness criteria, and vendor questionnaires must address PQC implementation timelines.
Performance Optimization Drives Innovation
Post-quantum algorithms carry computational overhead that impacts network performance and latency-sensitive applications. Throughout 2026, expect significant advances in hardware acceleration, algorithm optimization, and implementation efficiency. Full refresh cycles will be cost prohibitive for most so organizations will want to consider solutions that don’t impact network performance allowing them to avoid a full “rip-and-replace”.
The Time to Act Is Now
For infrastructure leaders, the quantum transition represents both risk and opportunity. Organizations that treat PQC as a compliance checkbox will struggle with rushed, expensive migrations. Those that view it as a catalyst for infrastructure modernization can build more agile, future-proof operations.
Begin by strengthening the path where all critical data travels – the network. Next, inventory cryptographic dependencies across your stack. Engage with vendors about their PQC roadmaps. Most importantly, secure executive sponsorship and budget allocation now before the window for methodical migration closes and emergency remediation becomes your only option.
