NIST Post-Quantum Cryptography: Rounds of Evaluation and Selection Criteria

The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) has undertaken a rigorous process to standardize post-quantum cryptography (PQC). This process involves multiple rounds of evaluation, where cryptographic algorithms are assessed for their security, performance, and implementation characteristics against the threat of quantum computers.

The NIST PQC Standardization Process: A Multi-Round Approach

NIST's approach is designed to be thorough and transparent, allowing for broad community participation and expert review. The process has evolved through several distinct rounds, each with specific objectives and criteria for algorithm submission and evaluation.

The NIST PQC standardization process is iterative, involving multiple rounds of submission, analysis, and refinement.

Submissions are made, then analyzed by experts. Algorithms that meet initial criteria advance to subsequent rounds for deeper scrutiny.

The process began with an open call for submissions. Algorithms that passed initial vetting were invited to participate in the first round of public evaluation. Following the first round, a subset of algorithms advanced to the second round, where they underwent more intensive cryptanalysis and performance testing. The third round focused on further refinement, implementation considerations, and the selection of algorithms for standardization.

Key Selection Criteria for PQC Algorithms

NIST established a comprehensive set of criteria to guide the evaluation and selection of PQC algorithms. These criteria ensure that the chosen algorithms are not only secure against quantum adversaries but also practical for widespread deployment.

Criterion	Description	Importance
Security	Resistance to known classical and quantum attacks.	Paramount; the primary driver for PQC.
Performance	Efficiency in terms of speed, key sizes, signature sizes, and computational overhead.	Crucial for practical deployment across various platforms.
Implementation Complexity	Ease of implementation in software and hardware, including side-channel resistance.	Impacts adoption rates and security of implementations.
Flexibility and Versatility	Applicability to different use cases (e.g., key encapsulation, digital signatures).	Ensures a broader range of security needs can be met.
Patent and Licensing Considerations	Availability of algorithms without encumbrances.	Facilitates open and equitable adoption.

The Evolution of the NIST PQC Process

The standardization process has been dynamic, with NIST regularly publishing updates, soliciting feedback, and adjusting its approach based on the evolving landscape of quantum computing and cryptography research.

The NIST PQC standardization is a marathon, not a sprint. It requires continuous vigilance and adaptation as quantum computing technology advances.

The selection of algorithms for standardization in the third round marked a significant milestone, but the process continues with ongoing research and potential for future standardization rounds as new threats and solutions emerge.

Understanding the NIST PQC Rounds

What is the primary goal of the NIST Post-Quantum Cryptography standardization process?

To identify and standardize cryptographic algorithms that are resistant to attacks by quantum computers.

Name at least three key criteria NIST uses to evaluate PQC algorithms.

Security, Performance, and Implementation Complexity are three key criteria.

By adhering to these rigorous evaluation rounds and selection criteria, NIST aims to ensure that the future of digital security is robust and prepared for the quantum era.

Learning Resources

NIST Post-Quantum Cryptography Project(documentation)

The official NIST page detailing the entire PQC standardization project, including timelines, calls for proposals, and official announcements.

Announcing the First Group of Selected Algorithms for Post-Quantum Cryptography Standardization(blog)

A NIST news release announcing the initial set of algorithms chosen for standardization, providing context on the selection process.

Post-Quantum Cryptography: The Road to Standardization(video)

A YouTube video explaining the NIST PQC standardization process, its importance, and the criteria involved.

NISTIR 8309: Report on Post-Quantum Cryptography, Standardization Process(paper)

A detailed NIST report outlining the initial phases and considerations for the PQC standardization process.

Introduction to Post-Quantum Cryptography(documentation)

An introductory overview of post-quantum cryptography concepts and the challenges it addresses, often linked to academic efforts.

The NIST PQC Competition: An Overview(paper)

A presentation summarizing the NIST PQC competition, its goals, and the evaluation criteria used for submissions.

Post-Quantum Cryptography Standardization: What You Need to Know(blog)

A blog post from Cloudflare explaining the significance of PQC and the NIST standardization efforts in accessible terms.

Quantum Computing and Cryptography(wikipedia)

Wikipedia's comprehensive article on post-quantum cryptography, covering its history, mathematical basis, and the NIST standardization process.

NIST PQC Round 3 Announcement and Analysis(blog)

An analysis of the NIST PQC Round 3 selections, discussing the chosen algorithms and their implications.

Understanding the NIST PQC Algorithm Selections(video)

A conceptual video explaining the different types of PQC algorithms selected by NIST and their intended use cases.