TechNet Cyber 2026

The convergence of quantum computing and artificial intelligence is rapidly reshaping the cybersecurity landscape, introducing both unprecedented capabilities and systemic risks. As quantum systems evolve toward practical cryptographic disruption and AI continues to automate attack and defense mechanisms, organizations face a dual-front transformation. This panel will explore how quantum advancements threaten current encryption standards, how AI accelerates both offensive cyber operations and defensive resilience, and what strategic frameworks are emerging to secure digital infrastructure in this new paradigm. The discussion will bring together perspectives on post-quantum cryptography, AI-driven threat detection, governance challenges, and the geopolitical implications of this technological convergence.

Key areas to be covered:

• The timeline and realistic threat horizon of quantum computing breaking classical encryption (e.g., RSA, ECC)
• Post-quantum cryptography: standards, migration challenges, and enterprise readiness
• AI as both attacker and defender: autonomous threat detection vs. AI-powered cyberattacks
• The intersection of quantum computing and AI in accelerating vulnerability discovery and exploitation
• Strategic risk management: how organizations should prioritize investments today for future resilience
• Regulatory and policy considerations, including global competition and national security implications
• Practical roadmap for enterprises: transitioning to quantum-safe and AI-augmented cybersecurity architectures