Key Takeaways
- PQShield achieves FIPS 140-3 certification under the NIST CMVP process
- PQCryptoLib supports hybrid classical and post quantum cryptography
- Certification strengthens PQShield’s quantum readiness strategy
- PQCryptoLib underpins PQPlatform and broader security solutions
- This milestone supports the evolution of the quantum safe certificate authority ecosystem
PQShield Achieves First FIPS 140-3 Certification, Marking a Major Step Forward for the Quantum Safe Certificate Authority Landscape
PQShield is thrilled to announce that PQCryptoLib, PQShield’s hybrid cryptographic library has achieved FIPS-140-3 certification under the NIST CMVP process. This accomplishment reinforces PQShield’s position as a leader in post quantum cryptography and strengthens the foundations of modern cryptographic trust models.
FIPS 140-3 Certification Under NIST CMVP
This phenomenal achievement, led by our Staff Cryptography Architect, Kris Kwiatowski, represents a huge three-year team effort from everyone at PQShield, including Research, Engineering and Operations, as well as our partners at UL Labs.
The Cryptographic Module Verification Program (CMVP) is designed to evaluate cryptographic modules and provide agencies and organizations with a metric for security products. Each submission is meticulously reviewed and verified based on a strict set of testable requirements.
PQCryptoLib has been certified at an interim level, for its use of classical and PQC algorithms in hybrid mode, or the classical algorithms independently. The software library is also in the CAVP (Cryptographic Algorithm Validation Program) for its PQC implementation, as part of the process, now that the NIST standards are final.
This achievement supports the secure development of future-ready infrastructure, including systems that require a quantum safe certificate authority to manage digital trust in a post quantum era.
Strengthening the Foundation of Quantum Safe Infrastructure
PQCryptoLib underpins many of PQShield’s core products, including the PQPlatform hardware IP family. This certification represents a meaningful quality threshold for post quantum cryptography and demonstrates that PQC can meet stringent federal security standards.
For organisations planning migration strategies, FIPS-validated modules are critical components in building scalable and compliant security architectures. As enterprises prepare for cryptographic transition, technologies like PQCryptoLib provide the foundation for secure firmware, secure boot processes and certificate authority infrastructures.
By advancing validated hybrid cryptographic modules, PQShield enables organisations to prepare for quantum threats without disrupting existing security operations.
A Standout Moment Following NIST PQC Standards
This milestone arrives within one month of NIST publishing its first finalised post quantum cryptography standards. The timing underscores PQShield’s commitment to rapid, standards-aligned innovation.
For organisations evaluating long-term PKI strategy, this development reinforces confidence in deploying solutions that integrate PQC within existing frameworks. It also signals progress toward scalable implementations of the quantum safe certificate authority model across industries including government, defence, finance and critical infrastructure.
What This Means for the Industry
FIPS 140-3 validation represents more than a technical achievement. It demonstrates that post quantum cryptographic modules can meet the same rigorous security expectations as traditional cryptography.
For customers of PQShield, this milestone strengthens the reliability of PQCryptoLib and PQPlatform as foundational technologies within quantum-resilient systems. It also provides assurance that PQShield solutions align with federal validation processes and global security standards.
As organisations transition toward quantum-safe architectures, certified modules will play a pivotal role in enabling trusted digital ecosystems powered by a quantum safe certificate authority.
Start Your Quantum Safe Journey with PQShield
If you are preparing your organisation for the post quantum era, contact PQShield today to explore how certified hybrid cryptography can strengthen your quantum-safe strategy.
To find out more, the FIPS-140-3 certificate is published here. Congratulations once again to Kris and the team!
Frequently Asked Questions
What is a quantum safe certificate authority?
A quantum safe certificate authority is a certificate authority that uses post quantum cryptographic algorithms to issue and manage digital certificates that remain secure against quantum computing attacks.
Why is FIPS 140-3 important for quantum safe solutions?
FIPS 140-3 certification validates that a cryptographic module meets stringent security requirements. For quantum safe systems, this ensures that post quantum algorithms are implemented securely and compliantly.
How does PQCryptoLib support quantum safe certificate authority deployments?
PQCryptoLib enables hybrid classical and post quantum cryptography, allowing organisations to integrate quantum-safe capabilities into existing PKI and certificate authority infrastructures.
What role does PQPlatform play in PQShield’s solutions?
PQPlatform is PQShield’s hardware IP family that integrates quantum-safe cryptography into silicon and embedded systems, supporting secure boot and trusted device identity.
How can organisations begin transitioning to quantum safe cryptography?
Organisations should begin with cryptographic inventory and risk assessment, followed by adoption of validated hybrid solutions like those developed by PQShield to support gradual migration toward a quantum safe certificate authority architecture.