background
The problem and classical response
Some widely used public-key schemes depend on mathematical problems that Shor's algorithms could solve efficiently on a sufficiently capable quantum computer. This is a conditional hardware threat, not evidence that all encryption is broken.
Sources: Peter Shor, author manuscript
reported
What happened
On August 13, 2024, NIST announced its first three finalized post-quantum standards: ML-KEM for key establishment, and ML-DSA and SLH-DSA for signatures. These are algorithms for classical computers. Migration is separate from buying quantum hardware.
Sources: NIST
interpretation
The remaining work
The standardization event does not prove every organization's systems have migrated. Inventories, interoperability and implementation checks are practical parts of adoption. This page explains the distinction; deployment choices require the applicable current technical guidance.
Sources: NIST
Sources and review scope
Source-linked. Editorial review: .