🔐 What Is Hybrid KEM? How Post-Quantum Security Works at the Storage Layer

Introduction: Quantum computing will disrupt traditional cryptography. RSA and ECC may soon be broken by quantum algorithms like Shor’s. NetApp is one of the first companies to implement post-quantum secure storage – using a Hybrid Key Encapsulation Mechanism (Hybrid KEM). But how does it actually work?

1. Why classical encryption is no longer enough

• Classical methods rely on mathematical problems (e.g., factoring, elliptic curves) that quantum computers can solve efficiently.

• Threat: Data stolen today may be decrypted tomorrow (“Harvest now, decrypt later”).

  
  

2. What is a Key Encapsulation Mechanism (KEM)?

• A KEM securely transmits a symmetric encryption key using public-key cryptography.

• Commonly used in TLS, VPNs, and storage security.

  
  

3. What is a Hybrid KEM?

• Combines classical and post-quantum key exchange algorithms.

• Example: The AES session key is encrypted using both RSA and CRYSTALS-Kyber (PQ algorithm).

• Decryption requires both keys – breaking only one is not enough.

  
  

4. Why it’s secure – now and in the future

• Even if classical crypto is broken by quantum, the PQ key remains.

• Hybrid KEM ensures backward compatibility and future resilience.

  
  

5. How NetApp implements this

• NetApp ONTAP already includes Hybrid KEM encryption for storage.

• This protects data-at-rest against quantum-era threats.

  
  

Conclusion: Hybrid KEM is a practical and forward-looking solution for post-quantum resilience. For industries with strict compliance and long-term data retention, this is not just an option – it’s a necessity.