Quantum Security vs Traditional Pen Testing
Traditional penetration testing finds today's vulnerabilities. Quantum security assessment protects against tomorrow's threats.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Category | Qryptonic | Traditional Pen Test |
|---|---|---|
| Focus Area | Cryptographic algorithms, key management, quantum vulnerabilities | Network, application, and infrastructure vulnerabilities |
| Threat Model | Harvest Now, Decrypt Later (HNDL) + current threats | Current exploitable vulnerabilities only |
| Testing Hardware | 8 real quantum computing platforms (AWS, IBM, Google, etc.) | Classical computing only |
| Algorithm Analysis | RSA, ECC, AES, SHA weakness identification + PQC readiness | Limited to known CVEs and misconfigurations |
| Output | CBOM + prioritized migration roadmap + board-ready report | Vulnerability list with CVSS scores |
| Timeline Coverage | Current + 10-15 year forward-looking (Q-Day) | Point-in-time current state only |
| Compliance Alignment | NIST PQC, CNSA 2.0, FIPS 203/204/205 | PCI-DSS, SOC 2, general frameworks |
| Operational Impact | Zero downtime, passive scanning | May require maintenance windows |
Focus Area
Cryptographic algorithms, key management, quantum vulnerabilities
Network, application, and infrastructure vulnerabilities
Threat Model
Harvest Now, Decrypt Later (HNDL) + current threats
Current exploitable vulnerabilities only
Testing Hardware
8 real quantum computing platforms (AWS, IBM, Google, etc.)
Classical computing only
Algorithm Analysis
RSA, ECC, AES, SHA weakness identification + PQC readiness
Limited to known CVEs and misconfigurations
Output
CBOM + prioritized migration roadmap + board-ready report
Vulnerability list with CVSS scores
Timeline Coverage
Current + 10-15 year forward-looking (Q-Day)
Point-in-time current state only
Compliance Alignment
NIST PQC, CNSA 2.0, FIPS 203/204/205
PCI-DSS, SOC 2, general frameworks
Operational Impact
Zero downtime, passive scanning
May require maintenance windows
Why Quantum-Focused Assessment Matters
Traditional security testing wasn't designed for the quantum threat landscape. Here's why specialized assessment is essential.
HNDL Attacks Are Happening Now
Adversaries are harvesting encrypted data today to decrypt when quantum computers mature. Traditional pen tests don't assess this risk.
Q-Day Timeline: 2028-2030
NSA and NIST project cryptographically relevant quantum computers within this decade. Migration takes 3-5 years.
Real Quantum Hardware Testing
We test on actual quantum computers, not simulations. This validates vulnerabilities against real quantum capabilities.
Cryptographic Bill of Materials
Complete inventory of every algorithm, key, and certificate in your environment—something traditional pen tests don't provide.
Common Questions
Do I still need traditional pen testing?
Yes. Quantum assessment and traditional pen testing serve different purposes. Traditional testing finds exploitable vulnerabilities today. Quantum assessment ensures your cryptography survives the quantum computing era. Most enterprises need both.
When should I get a quantum assessment?
Now. HNDL attacks are happening today—adversaries harvest encrypted data for future decryption. If your data has sensitivity beyond 2030 (trade secrets, PII, healthcare records), you're already in the exposure window.
How long does assessment take?
Q-Scout 26 assessment completes in 7 days with zero operational disruption. Traditional pen tests often take 2-4 weeks and may require maintenance windows.
Ready for Quantum-Safe Security?
Get a 7-day assessment that identifies your quantum vulnerabilities and provides a prioritized migration roadmap.
Request Assessment