Exploration of PQC-Based Digital Signature Schemes in TLS Certificates

Abstract

The rapid development in quantum computers brings huge risks to traditional cryptographic systems. This paper talks about the integration of PQC-based digital signature schemes to solve challenges posed on Transport Layer Security certificates. In this paper, we give an analysis of the efficacy, security, and performance implications of various schemes in PQC—particularly lattice-based, hash-based, and multivariate polynomial-based algorithms. We detail more closely the challenges of the real deployment, directly connected with these digital signatures, considering communication overhead and computational costs. Our findings indicate that hybrid certificate chains, which integrate multiple PQC schemes, offer a feasible solution for a seamless transition to quantum-resistant standards with manageable performance trade-offs. Moreover, our study extends to the quantification of security benefits these PQC schemes provide against both quantum and classical computational attacks, underscoring their potential in enhancing the resilience of digital communication systems. This paper aims to contribute valuable insights to ongoing standardization discussions and support the broader adoption of PQC, thereby ensuring robust and future-proof security in digital communications amidst the advancing quantum computing era.