Cryptographic agility is no longer optional—it’s a business essential.

Cryptographic agility is all about being able to quickly switch out and update your organisation’s security measures. Even though the technology behind it is designed to be flexible, many companies struggle to put it into practice.

With new threats and the arrival of quantum computing, being able to adapt your security is no longer a luxury—it’s a necessity.

• For tech companies, this means building software and hardware that can easily change which algorithms they use.
• For the companies using that technology, the real challenge is managing these changes as part of their day-to-day operations.

The Gap Between Tech and Reality

Protocols like TLS are designed to be agile, allowing systems to choose the best security settings and replace old algorithms. But in the real world, many businesses put off these updates for months, or even years, because of several reasons:

• Older systems that rely on outdated technology
• Concerns about compatibility
• Vague promises from vendors
• Fear of service disruption or downtime

In these situations, the risk of making a change seems much greater than the risk of using weaker security.

Agility as a Core Skill

True cryptographic agility isn’t just a technical feature; it’s a skill that an entire organisation must have. It combines technology, processes, and a clear plan. This skill is built on three key pillars:

1. Modern Architecture and Automation

Companies that use modern practices like DevSecOps and Infrastructure as Code can manage and test new security settings automatically. By moving cryptography outside of the main application code (for example, into proxies or gateways), companies can simplify updates and reduce risk.

2. Supply Chain Visibility

Your security is only as strong as your supply chain. Hidden components in your software might still be using outdated algorithms or hardcoded keys. Software Bills of Materials (SBOMs) are now becoming Cryptographic Bills of Materials (CBOMs), which give you a clear look into:

• Where and how cryptography is used
• Potential weaknesses
• How well your suppliers follow your security policies

This transparency helps you manage risks before they become a problem.

3. Clear Strategy and Governance

Without a clear plan and strong leadership, agility remains just an idea. This means you need to:

• Appoint cryptography leaders who can make decisions across different departments.
• Create clear, automated rules for which algorithms are approved.
• Measure progress using Key Performance Indicators (KPIs).
• Discuss your security posture with management and the board.

New regulations like NIS 2 and DORA are now making this a requirement, especially in finance and other key sectors, where you also need to check the security practices of your third-party suppliers.

From Better Crypto to Real Agility

Technology providers can build agile systems, but it’s up to each company to use them effectively. This requires a combined approach that covers architecture, your supply chain, and clear governance. The ultimate goal isn’t just “better security” — it’s the ability to adapt, respond, and stay secure no matter what new threats emerge.

How We Can Help

At CREAPLUS, our security experts have the technical knowledge and regulatory expertise to help you:

• Create a security strategy that fits your risk profile and meets NIS 2 / DORA requirements.
• Review and improve your current cryptographic systems.
• Integrate crypto-agile solutions into your infrastructure smoothly.
• Build a governance framework that makes cryptographic agility a sustainable part of your business.
• Assess and secure the cryptographic practices of your supply chain.

With the right strategy, cryptographic agility becomes a powerful advantage that makes your organisation more resilient and prepared for the future.