What is crypto-agility?
Crypto-agility is your organisation’s ability to quickly adapt to new cryptographic standards without disrupting business operations.
Today, most organisations rely on fixed algorithms like RSA or ECC.
The problem? Once quantum computers reach scale, these standards will no longer be secure. Crypto-agility means your systems are flexible enough to swap algorithms and update keys without major re-engineering.
In short: it’s about future-proofing your cyber defences for PQC readiness.
Why does crypto-agility matter now?
The NCSC’s Post-Quantum Cryptography (PQC) timeline sets a 2028 milestone for completing cryptographic inventories and preparing migration paths. But crypto-agility can’t be achieved overnight.
Three reasons it matters now:
- Quantum isn’t the only risk. Attackers are already stockpiling encrypted data, ready to decrypt it later (“harvest now, decrypt later”).
- Migration takes time. Updating every certificate, application and endpoint requires years of planning and testing.
- Compliance is coming. Regulators are expected to mandate PQC preparedness — lack of agility could mean penalties.
Signs your organisation lacks crypto-agility
Not sure where you stand? Warning signs include:
- No central visibility of certificates or encryption in use
- Heavy reliance on manual processes for certificate renewal
- Legacy systems that can’t easily update cryptographic libraries
- Multiple vendors with inconsistent encryption policies
If this sounds familiar, now’s the time to act.
Crypto-agility means your systems are flexible enough to swap algorithms and update keys without major re-engineering.
How to build crypto-agility
Getting crypto-agile is about creating flexibility and control in your cryptographic estate. Steps include:
Run a cryptographic inventory
Map all certificates, keys, and algorithms in use across your organisation.
Tool: AppViewX Cert+ automates discovery and lifecycle management.Centralise policy and visibility
Break down silos and gain control over encrypted traffic.
Tool: F5 BIG-IP delivers centralised inspection and control.Enable flexible enforcement
Ensure security controls can adapt without impacting performance.
Tool: Fortinet NGFWs and AppViewX streamline crypto-policy changes.Plan for hybrid crypto
Be ready to run classical and PQC algorithms side-by-side as standards mature.
Crypto-agility in action
Think of crypto-agility as building a gearbox for your security infrastructure. Instead of being locked in first gear (RSA), you can shift gears smoothly to PQC algorithms when the time comes.
Organisations that don’t build agility now risk stalling when PQC standards are finalised, and forced into disruptive, expensive upgrades.
How FullProxy can help
FullProxy combines consultancy with proven partner solutions from AppViewX, F5, and Fortinet to make crypto-agility achievable:
- Discover and manage your cryptographic estate automatically
- Orchestrate encrypted traffic with centralised visibility
- Strengthen current defences while preparing for PQC standards
Next steps
Building crypto-agility is the smartest move you can make today for PQC readiness.
Download our Crypto Readiness Checklist
Book a PQC Readiness Workshop with FullProxy experts
