A Survey of Cryptographic Algorithms in Cybersecurity: From Classical Methods to Quantum-Resistant Solutions

Abstract

As quantum computing technology evolves, it poses greater risks to current cryptography schemes such as RSA and Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC), widely used to secure digital communications These classical algorithms are based on mathematical problems that quantum algorithms such as Shore-Grover deal with. Both, can resolve much faster, making them vulnerable to quantum attack This has given rise to post-quantum cryptography (PQC), which focuses on developing quantum-resistant algorithms to protect data in the future of quantum computers classical cryptography Can Break This paper aims to provide a comprehensive insight into quantum-resistant cryptographic algorithms, including lattice-based, hash-based, code-based, and multivariable polynomial methods. It examines the efficiency, benefits, and challenges associated with implementing these algorithms in real-world applications. By comparing key parameters such as key size, encryption/decryption speed, and signature size, this study examines the relative strengths and limitations of post-quantum algorithms to their classical counterparts The results show that lattice-based algorithms , such as NTRU and Kyber, offer promising solutions with relative efficiency and manageable key sizes, making them potential candidates for quantum-resistant cryptography but other approaches , such as SPHINCS+ (hash-based) and McEliece (code-based), large -Face challenges of key size and slow encryption speed, which may limit their usefulness in some applications Despite these challenges, quantum post-cryptography is necessary to secure the future of digital communications.