Infineon’s PQC-certified contactless and dual-interface security controller
Quantum computers are expected to become powerful enough within the next decade to compromise many of today’s cryptographic algorithms, putting a wide range of systems at risk. Long-life products such as ePassports, IoT devices and Secure Elements, therefore, demand post-quantum cryptography (PQC)-ready hardware already today. To address this, Infineon is now providing the SLC27 security controller with a Common Criteria-certified cryptography library featuring the PQC algorithms ML-KEM and ML-DSA. As part of the TEGRION security controller family and based on the Integrity Guard 32 security architecture, the SLC27 supports standardised PQC implementations across multiple applications, enabling OEMs to integrate quantum-resistant security into their designs.
Since post-quantum cryptography represents a fundamentally new class of cryptographic techniques, involving highly diverse and complex operations, it is essential to utilise a robust and security-optimised hardware platform. The SLC27 security controller, built on the Integrity Guard 32 security architecture, provides a resilient foundation for implementing high-performant PQC, protected against side-channel and fault attacks. The controller also supports in-field updates and crypto agility, enabling OEMs to deploy PQC-ready hardware today and adapt to future requirements without replacing devices already in use. With these features, the SLC27 is suitable for applications where long device life and high security requirements demand quantum-resistant protection:
IoT devices: Industrial sensors, smart meters, and control units often operate for ten to twenty years. The SLC27 allows such devices to remain protected against future quantum attacks throughout their operational lifetime.
eID and ePassports: Government-issued ePassports and national eID cards with a typical ten-year validity can be future-proofed by integrating the SLC27, maintaining protected identification and border control systems.
Secure Elements and brand protection: Secure Elements and brand protection solutions for luxury goods, health care devices and consumables benefit from PQC-enabled SLC27 to resist tampering and counterfeiting over the long term.
