Quantum computing is no longer a distant threat, it’s rapidly reshaping the cybersecurity landscape. As quantum capabilities grow, organizations must prepare for new vulnerabilities that could compromise today’s cryptographic defenses.
AWS is stepping up by integrating post-quantum digital signature support into its Key Management Service (KMS), ensuring your sensitive data and digital assets remain secure against future quantum-powered attacks.
What is ML-DSA and Why Does It Matter?
The FIPS 204: Module-Lattice-Based Digital Signature Algorithm (ML-DSA) is a quantum-resistant signature scheme designed to withstand the computational power of quantum computers. AWS’s integration of ML-DSA into KMS means you can now create, manage, and use post-quantum keys with the same familiar KMS APIs, like CreateKey, Sign, and Verify. This seamless experience simplifies the transition to stronger cryptography while protecting your assets from emerging threats.
Key ML-DSA Features in AWS KMS
- Generate and manage quantum-safe keys in select regions (with broader rollout coming soon).
- Choose from three security levels to match your risk profile and resource constraints.
- Leverage SHAKE256 for robust, quantum-resistant signature generation and verification.
- Integrate easily into existing workflows and tools using AWS CLI and OpenSSL support.
Understanding ML-DSA Key Specifications
ML-DSA offers three key specs, each providing increasing levels of classical and quantum security:
- ML_DSA_44: 128-bit security
- ML_DSA_65: 192-bit security
- ML_DSA_87: 256-bit security
Higher security levels mean larger key and signature sizes, offering flexibility for various applications from embedded devices to high-assurance systems.
How Signing and Verification Work
With AWS KMS, signing digital artifacts such as firmware, JWTs, or software binaries, is straightforward. For messages under 4096 bytes, the RAW signing mode handles everything directly. For larger messages or performance optimization, the EXTERNAL_MU mode enables pre-processing to reduce message size, supported by both the AWS CLI and OpenSSL tools. This dual-mode approach ensures that even resource-constrained environments can benefit from post-quantum security.
From Key Creation to Signature Verification
Practical CLI examples demonstrate how to:
- Create ML-DSA keys with
aws kms create-key --key-spec ML_DSA_65 --key-usage SIGN_VERIFY- Sign JWTs in both RAW and EXTERNAL_MU modes
- Verify signatures using AWS KMS and OpenSSL 3.5
These workflows make it easy to adopt quantum-resistant signatures without overhauling existing processes.
Integrating ML-DSA with Certificate-Based Systems
ML-DSA isn’t just for standalone signatures. Its compatibility with certificate-based infrastructures ensures organizations can transition their public key infrastructures (PKI) to quantum-safe standards, safeguarding identity and trust as the cryptographic landscape evolves.
Benefits of Adopting Post-Quantum Signatures Now
- FIPS 140-3 compliance for cryptographic operations
- Long-term verifiability and trust for signed assets even after quantum computers emerge
- Customizable security levels for different applications
- Straightforward migration path for KMS customers
- Enhanced support for testing and quantum readiness planning
Secure Your Future with AWS KMS and ML-DSA
Adopting ML-DSA in AWS KMS is a strategic move for organizations committed to staying ahead of quantum threats. With multiple security levels, flexible integration modes, and seamless API support, AWS empowers you to protect your critical assets now and into the future. Start experimenting with post-quantum signatures to ensure your digital ecosystem stands strong as quantum computing matures.
For further details, explore AWS’s guidance on post-quantum cryptography and their migration plan.
Source: AWS Security Blog
Future-Proofing Digital Security: AWS KMS Adopts ML-DSA for Post-Quantum Signatures