The Five Nine: How quantum computing and AI agents could break network security - Fierce Network

A 2026 analysis warns quantum computing and AI-driven agents could disrupt traditional network security protocols by 2030, exploiting vulnerabilities in encryption and authentication systems. Researchers highlight Shor’s algorithm as a critical threat, capable of breaking RSA and ECC encryption—foundations of secure communications—once fault-tolerant quantum computers achieve sufficient qubit scales. AI agents may accelerate attacks by automating exploitation of quantum-decrypted data, bypassing firewalls and intrusion detection systems with adaptive, real-time tactics. Industries like finance, defense, and healthcare face heightened risks, as post-quantum cryptography adoption lags behind the pace of quantum advancements and AI integration. Experts urge immediate migration to quantum-resistant algorithms and zero-trust architectures to mitigate risks before large-scale quantum-AI hybrid attacks become operational.