Analyzing Dependencies among Challenges for Quantum-safe Transition

Abstract

The quantum computing-based threats call for a critical information infrastructure to modify widely used cryptographic algorithms to ones that are quantum-safe (QS). Yet, little scholarly research has been undertaken to study QS transition, and the guidance to prepare for socio-technical predicaments of the transition falls short. To address the gaps, the paper aims to determine the contextual interaction between QS transition challenges and classify these challenges into driving power and dependency power. In doing so, we use an integrated Interpretive Structural Modelling (ISM)-Matrice d'Impacts Croisés Multiplication Appliqués à un Classement (MICMAC) approach. The results of ISM-MICMAC analysis indicate that the dominant challenges that organizations need to prioritize are establishing a clear QS transition governance and collaborations in the ecosystem. The findings show that it is crucial for organizations to understand the ecosystem making up the critical information infrastructure they are operating in and collaboratively navigate the action approaches for the QS transition. This also implies that preparation for the QS transition not only includes developing QS solution standards but also requires well-defined roles and responsibilities for various actors in the ecosystem.