Q-PROTECT: Advancing the protection of 5G networks against quantum computing threats

Over the past three decades, public-key cryptography has become a key component of digital communications infrastructure worldwide. Applications such as mobile phones, online shopping, social networks and cloud computing rely on these technologies, which are essential to the economy, security, and modern lifestyle.

Although quantum computers capable of running algorithms like Shor (which can efficiently break encryptions like RSA by factoring large numbers) and Grover (which speeds up brute-force key search) on long keys do not yet exist, the quantum threat is becoming increasingly real. For this reason, existing cryptographic systems such as RSA, ECDSA, ECDH and DSA must be replaced by alternatives resistant to quantum attacks, such as post-quantum cryptography (PQC), quantum key distribution (QKD), or hybrid approaches.

The PQ-REACT project aims to design, develop and validate a framework that enables a rapid and smooth transition from classical cryptographic solutions to quantum-resistant ones, adapted to different usage contexts and domains. This framework will include migration pathways, cryptographic agility methods and a set of tools to validate post-quantum solutions, including the use of a real quantum computer.

Within this context, Q-PROTECT was launched by Vicomtech as part of Open Call #1 of the PQ-REACT programme, with the main goal of advancing the protection of 5G networks against future threats arising from quantum computing.

Throughout Q-PROTECT, several key challenges have been successfully addressed to integrate quantum-resistant technologies into 5G networks. One major achievement has been the integration of post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) algorithms into real and virtual network functions, assessing their impact on system performance. Hybrid approaches combining PQC and QKD have also been developed to reinforce both control and user plane security.

A quantum-ready public key infrastructure (PKI) has also been deployed, using post-quantum algorithms and supporting 5G technologies such as NFV and SDN. These solutions have been tested on critical 5G services like eMBB and URLLC to assess their impact on network efficiency and scalability. Additionally, cryptographic agility mechanisms have been developed to allow easy adaptation to future standards without affecting service availability. All the solutions have been validated in an advanced lab environment simulating real-world physical and virtual 5G network conditions.

Vicomtech thus remains committed to the development of innovative solutions that strengthen cybersecurity in complex networks, applying artificial intelligence and advanced information protection technologies to anticipate threats and ensure secure communications in critical environments.