Effect of quantum computing on current cryptography and preparation for post-quantum: review article

Abstract

The rapid advancement of quantum computing has sparked growing interest in the scientific and technological community due to its potential to profoundly transform various fields, including cryptography. Unlike classical computing systems, quantum computers leverage phenomena such as superposition and entanglement to perform calculations exponentially more efficiently. This capability puts current cryptographic algorithms at risk, especially those based on integer factorization and discrete logarithms, pillars of modern digital security. This study aims to analyze and verify the potential impact that quantum computing would have on current cryptographic systems and examine the main post-quantum cryptography proposals developed in response to this emerging threat. This was achieved through a review of articles published between 2020 and 2025. The PRISMA 2020 protocol was applied to 283 articles searched in databases such as Scopus, ScienceDirect and PubMed. A search formula was applied using keywords and Boolean operators, discarding duplicates, and applying inclusion and exclusion criteria. The final result was 15 articles, which were analyzed and studied with the help of Rayyan and VOSviewer. The discussion shows that while current cryptographic algorithms have evolved rapidly, obtaining robust cryptographic algorithms that are even highly resilient in terms of encryption and cryptography. The review concludes that, although quantum computing has not yet reached the maturity necessary to breach production systems, early preparation and the development of quantum-resistant cryptographic schemes are essential to guarantee information security in the near future.