Despite safeguarding sensitive data for decades, traditional encryption methods are under threat as the rise of quantum computing continues.

Quantum computers, capable of processing vast calculations at speeds impossible for today’s classical systems, are set to render standard encryption algorithms obsolete, posing a transformative challenge to current cybersecurity defences.

In light of this shift, some cybercriminals are adopting “harvest now, decrypt later” tactics, stockpiling encrypted data today in the hope of breaking it once quantum power becomes available. 

This means organisations in sectors like financial services, healthcare, telecommunications, and government — where data sensitivity is exceptionally high and its value persists over time — quantum-resilient cybersecurity is an immediate necessity.

Introducing Fortinet FortiOS

FortiOS is the foundation of Fortinet’s Security Fabric, delivering a unified and high-performance cybersecurity platform that seamlessly converges security and networking functions. 

Fortinet has expanded FortiOS, its flagship operating system, to provide advanced defences against quantum-enabled cyber threats. 

With the release of FortiOS 7.6, organisations leveraging FortiGate Next-Generation Firewall (NGFW) and Fortinet Secure SD-WAN now access built-in quantum-safe features.
The new key quantum-safe innovations in FortiOS are:
Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC): FortiOS integrates National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST)-approved post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, including ML-KEM, as well as promising contenders like BIKE, HQC and Frodo. These methods are designed to resist the computational power of quantum attacks.
Quantum Key Distribution (QKD): Leveraging quantum mechanics principles, QKD enables secure key exchange by ensuring any eavesdropping is immediately detectable. Since FortiOS 7.4, the system supports plug-and-play integration with leading QKD vendors via standardised interfaces, underlining Fortinet’s commitment to quantum-resilient infrastructure.

1. Algorithm stacking: By combining multiple cryptographic algorithms, FortiOS algorithm stacking strengthens network defences, making unauthorised decryption significantly more complex — even for quantum adversaries.
2. Hybrid security mode: This allows a gradual, seamless transition between traditional public-key cryptography and new quantum key technologies, giving organisations time to adapt without disruption.
3. User-friendly management: FortiOS introduces an enhanced interface that demystifies the configuration of quantum-safe settings, empowering network administrators to implement robust protections without needing deep quantum expertise.

“At Fortinet, we’re committed to arming customers with cutting-edge technology to protect against new and emerging threats,” Michael Xie, Founder, President and CTO at Fortinet, says.

source:
https://cybermagazine.com/news/how-fortinets-fortios-expands-protections-for-the-quantum-era