Thales has achieved a first in bolstering 5G network security against the emerging threat of quantum computing, successfully demonstrating a method for live network implementation. Recognizing the vulnerability of critical infrastructure reliant on 5G, from smartphones to emergency services, the company has pioneered a solution that bypasses the need for widespread device replacement. This innovation centers on “crypto agility,” enabling remote, instantaneous security upgrades directly to existing SIM and eSIM cards. “This successful test shows that quantum-safe security is no longer a future concept, it’s something networks can start preparing for today,” said Eva Rudin, VP Mobile Connectivity solutions at Thales. By remotely downloading post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, Thales offers a path toward resilient and trusted 5G networks as quantum computing capabilities advance.
5G Network Security: Thales Demonstrates Remote Crypto-Agility
A recent demonstration by Thales establishes a new benchmark in 5G network security, addressing the looming threat of quantum computing with a novel approach to cryptographic agility. The company successfully showcased the ability to remotely update security protocols directly on existing SIM and eSIM cards, a feat previously considered a significant challenge for the telecommunications industry given the scale of deployed devices. This innovation moves beyond theoretical discussions of quantum-resistant security, offering a practical solution for operators concerned about protecting critical infrastructure and services reliant on 5G networks, including connected vehicles and emergency response systems. Thales’ crypto agility circumvents the need for widespread hardware replacement during security standard evolutions; instead, post-quantum cryptographic algorithms are downloaded directly to the cards, preserving data and services while simultaneously bolstering defenses.
This remote update capability allows operators to maintain secure, resilient networks even as quantum computing capabilities advance, ensuring continuity in a rapidly evolving digital environment. The demonstration builds upon Thales’ ongoing research and development efforts in post-quantum cryptography, with the company actively contributing to international standardization initiatives led by organizations like the U.S. National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). Thales invested more than €4 billion in Research & Development in 2024, focusing on areas like cybersecurity and quantum technologies, and employs over 83,000 people across 68 countries.
Post-Quantum Cryptography: Thales’ NIST Standardization Contributions
The current focus on post-quantum cryptography stems from the increasing threat quantum computing poses to existing encryption methods; conventional algorithms widely used to protect data transmissions and storage are vulnerable to attacks from sufficiently powerful quantum computers. Recognizing this, Thales demonstrated a first-of-its-kind innovation preparing 5G networks for this future, addressing a critical need for the telecommunications industry where networks support vital infrastructure and services. The core challenge lies in the impracticality of replacing millions of devices with each security update, prompting a search for more sustainable solutions. This allows operators to adapt security protections as threats evolve, bypassing the need for new hardware generations and minimizing disruption; the company achieves this by remotely downloading post-quantum cryptographic algorithms onto the cards seamlessly, preserving existing data and services while enhancing security. Furthermore, Thales actively contributes to international standardization efforts, such as those led by the U.S.
This successful test shows that quantum-safe security is no longer a future concept, it’s something networks can start preparing for today.
Eva Rudin, VP Mobile Connectivity solutions at Thales
