AdGuard VPN has become the latest provider to introduce quantum-resistant encryption, strengthening its security against future cyber threats.
The new encryption system combines traditional encryption methods with one of the post-quantum algorithms released by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) in August 2024. The upgrade was rolled out on macOS and Windows on March 6, 2025, with iOS and Android apps expected to receive the update later in the month.
Why Quantum-Resistant Encryption Matters
As quantum computing advances, experts warn that current RSA-based encryption could soon be obsolete. Unlike today’s computers, quantum machines will be able to solve complex mathematical problems in minutes, making it easier to break traditional encryption methods.
“We are on the brink of the quantum technology era, and data protection must stay ahead of the threats, not just react to them,” said Denis Vyazovoy, AdGuard VPN CPO. “By implementing post-quantum cryptography, we are laying the foundation for a secure internet in the future.”
Tech giants such as Google and Microsoft are already making breakthroughs in quantum computing with projects like Google’s Willow quantum chip and Microsoft’s Majorana 1 chip. These advancements bring us closer to the reality of quantum-powered cyber threats.
While mainstream quantum computing is still years away, cybercriminals are believed to be using a tactic called “harvest now, decrypt later.” This means they are collecting encrypted data today in hopes of decrypting it in the future when quantum computers become powerful enough.
How AdGuard VPN Protects Against Quantum Threats
In response to these risks, NIST released the first set of quantum-safe encryption algorithms last year. These include ML-KEM for key exchanges and ML-DSA and SLH-DSA for identity authentication.
AdGuard VPN has implemented a hybrid encryption model that combines:
- The X25519 elliptic curve algorithm (a widely trusted encryption method)
- The Kyber768-based ML-KEM768 algorithm (designed for quantum resistance)
This dual-layer system ensures strong protection against both current and future cyber threats. Even if post-quantum encryption is compromised, traditional encryption remains in place to safeguard user data.
AdGuard VPN joins other leading providers—Google, Signal, Tuta Mail, ExpressVPN, NordVPN, Mullvad VPN, Windscribe, and PureVPN—in adopting post-quantum encryption.
How to Enable the Feature
If you’re using the latest version of AdGuard VPN on desktop, you can activate this advanced security feature through the settings menu. The company expects to roll out the same protection to its iOS and Android apps within the next few weeks.
As the cybersecurity landscape evolves, adopting quantum-resistant encryption is becoming a crucial step in protecting data for years to come.
