Forescout Technologies has launched a patented solution to detect non-quantum-safe encryption in real time, addressing a major cybersecurity risk posed by the advent of quantum computing. The technology, embedded in Forescout’s 4D Platform, evaluates cryptographic protocols on devices—whether managed or unmanaged—and flags outdated encryption that may be vulnerable to “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks. This innovation, invented in 2023 and patented in 2024, forms the backbone of Forescout’s new Quantum-Safe Security Assurance framework.
New research from Forescout’s Vedere Labs highlights the critical gap in preparedness. Out of 186 million SSH servers scanned globally, only 6% support post-quantum encryption. Meanwhile, fewer than 20% of systems use TLS 1.3, the only version that currently supports PQC. The report also shows that while adoption of NIST-standardized algorithms like ML-KEM is growing rapidly—up 554% in six months—it remains under 0.1% of deployments. Legacy OT, IoT, and IoMT systems are particularly vulnerable, with hardware constraints limiting PQC upgrades.
Forescout’s four-step strategy—detect, enforce, mitigate, and control—enables enterprises to pinpoint cryptographic vulnerabilities and apply network segmentation, policy enforcement, and access control across hybrid environments. The company is urging organizations to transition away from vulnerable encryption now, especially for assets transmitting sensitive data like protected health information or financial records.
- Forescout’s technology identifies PQC-insecure devices in real time at the network layer
- Only 6% of global SSH servers support post-quantum encryption
- Less than 0.1% of systems have adopted NIST-standardized algorithms like ML-KEM
- OT, IoT, and IoMT devices present additional upgrade challenges
- Forescout urges immediate mitigation steps, including minimizing use of ISPs/SASE for critical systems
“Quantum computing is no longer a far-off concept,” said Barry Mainz, CEO of Forescout. “It’s a fast-approaching reality that will challenge the foundations of digital trust.”
🌐 Why it Matters: As quantum computing progresses toward practical decryption capabilities, organizations must urgently address legacy cryptographic systems or risk exposure. Forescout’s visibility and enforcement platform positions enterprises to prepare now—before PQC becomes not just strategic, but essential.
🔒 We’re tracking the latest developments in quantum networking and cryptographic resilience. Follow our ongoing coverage at: https://convergedigest.com/category/quantum/
