ExpressVPN leads the cybersecurity race with its latest breakthrough: implementing ML-KEM encryption across its applications. This strategic update positions the company at the forefront of quantum-resistant security solutions.
The integration marks a significant milestone, replacing the previous Kyber algorithm in ExpressVPN’s Lightway protocol. This change adopts one of three quantum-resistant standards the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) introduced in August 2023.
Pete Membrey, ExpressVPN’s Chief Research Officer, shares the technical significance: “ML-KEM builds upon Kyber’s foundation, establishing itself as the standard for cryptographic key exchanges.” The update maintains Lightway’s performance while implementing NIST Security Level 5 key sizes for TCP and UDP connections.
The company’s technical evolution extends beyond ML-KEM implementation. ExpressVPN transitions from Open Quantum Safe team’s framework to WolfSSL, an open-source communication security library. This shift brings practical benefits: optimal ML-KEM implementation, improved speed, and enhanced power efficiency across platforms.
With quantum computing advancements predicted by 2030, traditional RSA-based key exchanges face obsolescence. Current VPN encryption methods might fall to quantum processing capabilities. NIST’s quantum-safe standards address this challenge, supporting not just VPN services but also messaging platforms and encrypted email systems.
While many providers work on quantum-resistant solutions, ExpressVPN joins select companies like Mullvad VPN, Windscribe, and PureVPN in offering such protection. Users can access these advanced security features by updating their ExpressVPN application across major platforms.
