Combining a quantum random number generator and quantum-resistant algorithms into the GnuGPG open-source software

Abstract

The "quantum threat"to our current, convenient cryptographic algorithms is getting closer, with demonstrable progress by commercial quantum computing efforts. It is now more important than ever that we combine all of our tools into a new quantum-safe toolbox to develop the next generation of quantum-safe networking solutions. Here we combine an integrated quantum entropy source with quantum-resistant algorithms in the GnuGPG open-source software; leading to a fully quantum-safe version of GnuGPG. The quantum entropy source itself is capable of a raw rate of randomness in excess of 10 Gbps. After post-processing, quantum random numbers are used by the quantum-resistant algorithms to allow GnuGPG to perform its usual public-key cryptographic tasks, such as digitally signing documents, but now in a secure quantum-safe way.