Helping operators prepare for the transition to quantum-safe cryptography.
ATIS is strengthening the telecom industry’s cybersecurity defenses with the release of a new white paper, “Cryptographic Bill of Materials for Telecom: Enabling Quantum-Safe Transition and Crypto-Agility in 5G Networks.” The paper outlines how a telecom-specific Cryptographic Bill of Materials (CBOM) can help operators secure their networks today while preparing for the challenges of a quantum-enabled future.
As 5G networks evolve and threats from quantum computing draw closer, traditional cryptographic algorithms are becoming increasingly vulnerable. To maintain secure and scalable operations, operators must first understand their cryptographic landscape where encryption is applied, which algorithms are in use, and what potential risks exist. A CBOM makes this possible. More than just an inventory, a CBOM is a structured, machine-readable record of all cryptographic assets—spanning software, hardware, network functions, and interfaces. It captures key metadata, including algorithm types, protocols, key material, versioning, dependencies, and usage context, providing the foundation for risk assessment, remediation, and long-term crypto-agility.
“Understanding your cryptographic footprint is the first critical step toward securing next-generation telecom networks,” said Principal Technologist Ian Deakin. “The CBOM equips operators with the visibility and tools needed to assess risk, prioritize action, and prepare for the transition to quantum-safe security standards.”
By delivering this visibility, CBOM not only strengthens cybersecurity defenses but also supports compliance with emerging national and international mandates aimed at preparing critical infrastructure for a quantum-safe future.
