Palo Alto Networks Launches QRNG Open API to Future-Proof Organizations Against Quantum Security Threats
In a groundbreaking move to address the looming threat of quantum computing, Palo Alto Networks (NASDAQ: PANW), the global leader in cybersecurity, has announced the release of its Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG) Open API framework. This initiative empowers organizations to prepare for future quantum-enabled attacks by enabling the seamless integration of QRNG technology into their systems. Developed in collaboration with six leading innovators in the QRNG field—Anametric, ID Quantique, Qrypt, Quantinuum, Quantropi, and Quside—the framework promotes multi-vendor interoperability, ensuring that organizations can build resilient systems regardless of the underlying technology or provider.
Why Quantum Security Matters
The convergence of artificial intelligence (AI), machine learning (ML), deep learning, classical supercomputing, and quantum computing is reshaping the digital landscape. While these advancements offer immense potential, they also introduce unprecedented security challenges. Quantum computers have the capability to break traditional cryptographic algorithms, rendering current encryption methods obsolete. To combat this, experts recommend combining recently released NIST post-quantum cryptography (PQC) standards with QRNG technology, which uses the principles of quantum mechanics to generate truly random numbers. These random numbers are critical for creating secure cryptographic keys that can withstand quantum-enabled attacks.
The QRNG Open API framework eliminates barriers to adoption, making it easier for organizations to access high-quality entropy—the foundation of robust cryptographic operations. By embedding the API into applications and systems, businesses can future-proof their infrastructure against quantum threats while maintaining flexibility and choice.
Key Features and Benefits of the QRNG Open API
Available through the Palo Alto Networks GitHub portal, the QRNG Open API is designed to simplify integration, maximize interoperability, and accelerate adoption across industries. Later this year, the API will be supported by Palo Alto Networks’ Next-Generation Firewalls (NGFWs), allowing the network security platform to leverage quantum randomness for cryptographic functions. Key features of the framework include:
- Simplified Integration: Removes proprietary silos, enabling organizations to integrate QRNG technology without complex customization.
- Multi-Vendor Interoperability: Promotes freedom of choice, allowing customers to select the best technologies and systems for their needs, whether cloud-based or on-premises.
- Accelerated Adoption: Lowers barriers to entry with a collaborative, open approach, making quantum randomness more accessible to organizations of all sizes.
- High-Quality Entropy: Provides a standardized mechanism for obtaining high-quality randomness from external QRNG platforms, ensuring cryptographic resilience.
Industry Leaders Weigh In
The launch of the QRNG Open API has been met with widespread support from Palo Alto Networks’ partners, who recognize its importance in advancing quantum security.
Fernando de la Iglesia, VP of Product, Quside:
“As a leader in quantum technology, Quside is committed to advancing the adoption of quantum randomness in cybersecurity and high-performance computing. The QRNG Open API initiative is crucial for establishing clear and robust guidelines that meet precise user needs.”
Kenny Huebsch, Director of Software Engineering, Qrypt:
“The biggest hurdle in helping organizations adopt quantum entropy isn’t convincing them of its value—it’s how complex it is to integrate into their systems. Driving toward a standard is an essential first step on a path to broader first-class support of quantum entropy sources.”
Wil Oxford, CEO, Anametric:
“Establishing a standardized QRNG Open API is crucial for the cybersecurity landscape, facilitating the seamless transition to post-quantum cryptography (PQC). Our collective expertise and collaboration will ensure that our digital infrastructure remains resilient, secure, and future-ready.”
Duncan Jones, Head of Cybersecurity, Quantinuum:
“Participating in the QRNG Open API initiative enables us to work alongside other industry leaders to address a critical aspect of quantum safety—the quality of randomness used in cryptographic operations. By developing a common standard for access, we’re helping organizations strengthen their cybersecurity today while ensuring flexibility for the future.”
Mike Redding, CTO, Quantropi:
“We believe that open standards are essential to give clients the confidence to adopt new technologies. Quantropi was honored to contribute our expertise to the QRNG Open API initiative to help make the Open API a reality. It allows clients to focus on the quality, reliability, security, and value of QRNG service offerings without the complication of evaluating implementation differences.”
Grégoire Ribordy, CEO, ID Quantique:
“ID Quantique commercializes quantum hardware and software systems compliant with relevant standards, ensuring smooth integration with existing security frameworks. Quantum entropy combined with existing solutions improves data security today and in the future. We were delighted to support Palo Alto Networks’ initiative to provide a QRNG Open API to customers.”
A Collaborative Approach to Quantum Safety
Securing the world against quantum threats requires collaboration across industries, governments, and standards bodies. As Rich Campagna, SVP of Product Management at Palo Alto Networks, emphasized:
“Helping the world become quantum-safe is much more than any one cybersecurity company, government agency, or critical infrastructure organization can tackle alone. Collaboration in the QRNG field is vital to future-proofing against quantum computing threats, and we are committed to working with standards bodies, global governments, and our partners to steer the industry toward standardization. We are thrilled to launch the QRNG Open API to benefit as many organizations as possible.”
About Palo Alto Networks
Palo Alto Networks is the global leader in cybersecurity, dedicated to making each day safer than the one before. Powered by Precision AI™, the company delivers industry-leading solutions in network security, cloud security, and security operations. Its platformization approach integrates diverse security tools into a unified, scalable platform, providing comprehensive protection and operational efficiencies. From defending network perimeters to safeguarding cloud environments and ensuring rapid incident response, Palo Alto Networks empowers businesses to achieve Zero Trust security and confidently embrace digital transformation in an ever-evolving threat landscape.
Palo Alto Networks is also recognized as a workplace of choice, earning accolades such as Newsweek’s Most Loved Workplaces (2021-2024), a perfect score on the Disability Equality Index (2024, 2023, 2022), and HRC Best Places for LGBTQ+ Equality (2022). For more information, visit www.paloaltonetworks.com.
