Quantum computing isn’t just a futuristic idea; it’s rapidly becoming a present-day reality, and with it comes a new kind of security challenge. In this episode of Interconnected, Equinix’s Glenn Dekhayser and Petrina Steele talk to Tom Patteson, the Global Lead for Emerging Technology Security at Accenture, a global tech and management consultancy that delivers strategy, design, and execution for business transformation. Together, they unpack what a “post-quantum world” really means for digital security, encryption, and critical infrastructure. They break down how today’s encryption (which protects everything from banking to power grids) could be vulnerable to future quantum computers, and why the threat of “steal now, decrypt later” makes this an urgent issue. You’ll also understand how post-quantum encryption works and why companies need to stay flexible as security keeps evolving. The conversation dives into practical steps organizations can take today, from building crypto inventories to adopting post-quantum cryptography and developing enterprise-wide strategies. You’ll also hear a simple, clear explanation of what makes post-quantum cryptography different and why “crypto agility” will be essential in the years ahead. Key points: Adversaries are already stealing encrypted data now, which means organizations need to act immediately, not in 10–15 years. Common systems like RSA and ECC that protect banking, energy, government, and data centers will be vulnerable once powerful quantum computers arrive.Companies can start with a simple “quantum risk test,” an inventory of where encryption lives, and prioritize what’s most critical, and most systems can be upgraded over time.Instead of one standard type of encryption, organizations will need multiple post-quantum algorithms managed automatically. This is where AI and new tools become essential. Guests & Resources: Tom Patterson: www.linkedin.com/in/tomtalks Global Lead for Emerging Technology Security, Accenture Meet the Hosts: Glenn Dekhayser / https://www.linkedin.com/in/gdekhayser Global Principal Technologist at Equinix Petrina Steele / https://www.linkedin.com/in/petrinasteele Global Lead, Emerging Technologies & Ecosystems at Equinix Watch the full video series on YouTube Subscribe to the channel and follow Interconnected for more episodes on AI, infrastructure, and our connected future.
