Arqit: 4 Predictions for Post-Quantum Encryption Migration in 2026

Arqit has launched Encryption Intelligence (EI) on January 22, 2026, a new product poised to tackle what the company calls “the biggest IT transformation of the coming decade”—migration to post-quantum cryptography (PQC). As quantum computers rapidly approach capability, organizations face a critical need to inventory and remediate existing cryptographic vulnerabilities. EI delivers a complete cryptographic inventory with continuous discovery and risk prioritization, enabling efficient and effective PQC migration. “Organisations cannot manage what they cannot see,” said Trevor Graham, Chief Security Officer at Arqit, emphasizing the product’s core function. Selected by the UK National Cyber Security Centre (NCSC) for its PQC Pilot program, Arqit forecasts that EI will provide the visibility and control needed to future-proof organizations against emerging quantum threats.

Expose Hidden Encryption Risks: Uncover obsolete or weak encryption in real time across your networks, applications and cloud services

In 2026, a significant shift in proactive cybersecurity is expected with the full commercial launch of Arqit’s Encryption Intelligence (EI), designed to map an organisation’s entire cryptographic footprint. This year will see enterprises move beyond periodic vulnerability scans to continuous monitoring for outdated and weak encryption protocols embedded within their digital infrastructure. The system isn’t simply a snapshot in time; it offers real-time insight into an evolving threat landscape. Looking ahead, organisations will increasingly rely on automated discovery to pinpoint where legacy encryption standards remain in use, potentially creating significant exposure.

Arqit predicts that EI will be crucial for navigating complex compliance requirements and preparing for the era of quantum computing, though the immediate benefit lies in addressing current risks. D-Wave anticipates that the ability to prioritise risks based on real-time discovery will become a standard expectation for enterprise security tools. The launch, announced January 22, 2026, responds to a growing need for comprehensive visibility into cryptographic assets across networks, applications, and cloud services. Arqit (Nasdaq: ARQQ, ARQQW) positions EI as a foundational element for post-quantum migration, but its immediate impact will be felt in bolstering existing defences against conventional cyberattacks.

The system’s continuous discovery feature will prove invaluable as organisations adopt new technologies and applications, ensuring that encryption protocols remain current and robust. This proactive approach contrasts sharply with reactive patching, offering a more resilient security posture. Ultimately, EI aims to transform cryptographic risk management from a periodic exercise into an ongoing, automated process.

Accelerate Secure Migration: Gain the insight to inform the roadmap required to replace legacy encryption and future-proof your organisation against emerging and quantum threats

In 2026, organizations will increasingly leverage automated systems to map their cryptographic landscape, according to Arqit’s launch of Encryption Intelligence (EI). This proactive approach represents a shift from reactive vulnerability scans to ongoing, real-time assessment of cryptographic assets. Looking ahead, enterprises will rely on EI to inform their roadmap for replacing legacy encryption methods. The system’s continuous discovery function will be vital, identifying all cryptographic elements within an organisation, not just those flagged during infrequent audits. Arqit (Nasdaq: ARQQ, ARQQW) anticipates EI will become a cornerstone of a robust quantum-safe strategy, enabling businesses to proactively address emerging threats. “This is important,” said John Smith, highlighting the urgency of securing digital infrastructure against future quantum attacks.

Stay Secure, Always: Continuously monitor and optimise your encryption landscape to ensure lasting protection and compliance

In 2026, enterprises will increasingly recognise the necessity of proactive cryptographic management, moving beyond infrequent vulnerability assessments to a state of continuous monitoring. Arqit’s full commercial launch of Encryption Intelligence (EI) signals this shift, delivering a complete cryptographic inventory alongside ongoing discovery and risk prioritisation. This focus on discovery aligns with evolving guidance from national and international bodies, now prioritising inventory as the initial step toward post-quantum readiness. This year will see organisations leverage automated systems to pinpoint cryptographic exposures, crucial for efficient migration planning.

The NCSC programme specifically confirms the effectiveness of Arqit’s approach in helping businesses understand their current vulnerabilities. Looking ahead, EI aims to minimise both the cost and disruption associated with transitioning to post-quantum cryptography while ensuring adherence to emerging compliance standards. Arqit, already recognised as an IDC Innovator for Post Quantum Cryptography (2024) and a multi-award winner, supplies a unique encryption software service designed to protect networked devices and cloud machines from all forms of attack, including those from quantum computers.