Moving to the Quantum Era

A Stage-Based Growth Approach for Organizations Navigating the Transition to Post-Quantum Cryptography

Doctoral Thesis (2026)
Author(s)

I. Kong (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)

Contributor(s)

Marijn Janssen – Promotor (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)

N. Bharosa – Promotor (TU Delft - Technology, Policy and Management)

Research Group
Information and Communication Technology
DOI related publication
https://doi.org/10.4233/uuid:7c0ce963-881f-432d-9438-42a581adc93d Final published version
More Info
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Publication Year
2026
Language
English
Defense Date
08-06-2026
Awarding Institution
Delft University of Technology
Research Group
Information and Communication Technology
ISBN (print)
978-94-6384-970-8
Downloads counter
5
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Abstract

As cryptographically relevant quantum computers draw closer to reality, protecting critical infrastructures that depend on Public Key Infrastructures (PKIs) for secure digital communication has never been more urgent. Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) is emerging as a key solution to counter the threats posed by quantum computing, offering algorithms designed to withstand both classical and quantum attacks. However, transitioning existing PKIs to quantum-safe (QS) systems remains complex and requires careful planning.

This thesis aims to identify the key challenges involved in QS transition and to provide a stage-based growth model for organizations looking to transition to QS PKIs. By applying Interpretive Structural Modelling and Cross-Impact Matrix Multiplication Applied to Classification (ISM-MICMAC), this thesis presents a novel approach for developing a growth model grounded in QS transition challenges. The results indicate that organizations need to not only navigate changes in the ecosystem but also be prepared to take action at each stage to collectively move to QS PKIs.

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