INFORMATIONAL RESOURCE
Cryptographic Agility Infographic
Infographic Overview
Cryptographic agility is the capability to rapidly transition between cryptographic primitives without significant code changes or system redesign. This infographic illustrates why cryptographic agility is crucial for the post-quantum transition and provides practical guidance on implementing agile cryptographic systems.
What is Cryptographic Agility?
Definition
Cryptographic agility is a design principle that allows systems to:
- Quickly transition between different cryptographic primitives
- Support multiple algorithms simultaneously
- Update cryptographic implementations with minimal disruption
- Adapt to new security requirements and threats
Benefits
An agile cryptographic architecture provides:
- Protection against cryptographic vulnerabilities
- Smoother transitions during algorithm deprecation
- Reduced costs when migrating cryptographic standards
- Future-proofing against emerging threats like quantum computing
- Support for regulatory compliance as requirements evolve
Key Components of Cryptographic Agility
1Abstraction Layers
Implement clean interfaces between cryptographic operations and underlying implementations. Use cryptographic service providers, libraries with algorithm-agnostic APIs, and modular designs that isolate cryptographic functions.
2Algorithm Negotiation
Build systems capable of negotiating algorithms between parties. Support protocol-level negotiation through versioning mechanisms. Include fallback options to maintain compatibility while introducing new algorithms.
3Metadata & Management
Include algorithm identifiers and version information with encrypted data and signatures. Implement comprehensive key management that tracks algorithm usage and supports migration between different algorithm types.
Implementation Approaches
| Approach | Description | Best For |
|---|---|---|
| Crypto Libraries | Use algorithm-agnostic cryptographic libraries with standardized interfaces | New system development, major refactoring |
| Crypto Service Providers | Implement provider architecture that allows swapping implementations | Enterprise systems, cross-platform applications |
| Plugin Systems | Create plugin frameworks for cryptographic modules | Systems needing frequent algorithm updates |
| Configuration-Driven | Use configuration files to specify algorithms and parameters | Systems with centralized management |
| Hybrid Approaches | Support multiple algorithms simultaneously (e.g., classical + post-quantum) | Transition periods, high-security environments |
Cryptographic Agility Readiness Checklist
Design & Architecture
Management & Operations
Cryptographic Agility for Post-Quantum Transition
Preparing for PQC with Crypto Agility
Cryptographic agility is essential for the transition to post-quantum cryptography. Organizations should:
- Assess current agility: Evaluate systems for their ability to update cryptographic algorithms without extensive redesign.
- Enhance agility now: Even before PQC standards are finalized, implement agile cryptographic architectures in current development.
- Prepare for hybrid solutions: Design systems capable of using both classical and post-quantum algorithms simultaneously during the transition period.
- Establish governance: Create frameworks for evaluating and approving cryptographic algorithm changes.
- Test with PQC candidates: Begin experimenting with NIST PQC candidate algorithms in non-production environments.
Related Resources
Download Options: This infographic is available in digital format only. For accessibility needs or to request alternative formats, please contact pqc-support@dhs.gov.