Quantum computers are no longer just a futuristic concept—they’re becoming real, and with them comes a new kind of cybersecurity threat. Traditional encryption methods, which protect everything from financial data to national security systems, could be rendered obsolete by the sheer power of quantum computing. As this technological shift looms closer, the need for quantum-resilient cybersecurity has never been more urgent.
India is stepping up to the challenge. A new wave of homegrown startups is building solutions that go beyond conventional security. These innovators are developing quantum-safe encryption, secure communication channels, and post-quantum cryptographic tools designed to protect data in a world where today’s algorithms may no longer be enough.
Here are 5 Indian cybersecurity startups leading the charge to secure our digital future in the quantum age.
1. QNu Labs (Bengaluru)
QNu Labs is one of the first Indian companies to build cybersecurity products using quantum technology. Their tools help keep data safe on the internet and cloud—even from future threats that today’s systems can’t handle.
The company was started with a strong belief that India can build world-class tech products. Today, QNu Labs is solving modern cybersecurity problems using the power of quantum science. The team is made up of passionate experts in quantum physics, cybersecurity, optoelectronics, laser technology, and high-precision electronics. QNu Labs is proud to be India’s first—and only—quantum cryptography company, placing the country firmly on the global quantum technology map.
2. Pantherun Technologies
Pantherun Technologies is a Bengaluru-based cybersecurity company that’s changing the way data is protected—at the chip and software level. With a patented encryption technology that works in real time, Pantherun makes it 10x harder for attackers to breach systems. What’s more, their solution is built to resist the future threats of quantum computing and side-channel attacks.
Pantherun’s unique approach doesn’t need key exchange or format changes. It uses AI to generate encryption keys independently at both ends of a communication line, making it extremely secure and easy to integrate across devices. From Ethernet ports in cars to sensors in smart cities, Pantherun’s technology protects data across critical industries
3. Nu Quantum
Nu Quantum is a cutting-edge startup specializing in quantum cryptography systems. The company develops modular hardware rooted in single-photon source array technology to power the next generation of quantum-secure communication. Its solutions include a quantum random number generator for creating unbreakable encryption keys and a quantum key distribution (QKD) system to enable ultra-secure data transfer.
Led by co-founders Carmen Palacios-Berraquero and Matthew Applegate, Nu Quantum has secured $12.1 million in funding from top-tier investors like Amadeus Capital, IQ Capital, and Expeditions Fund, with a current valuation of £9.43 million. The company operates in a competitive space with over 200 players, standing out alongside peers like QNu Labs, QuintessenceLabs, and ID Quantique.
4. ID Quantique
Founded in 2001 in Geneva, Switzerland, ID Quantique (IDQ) is a pioneer in network and data encryption, leveraging quantum technologies to secure sensitive information. The company offers high-performance network encryption solutions capable of protecting data in transit at speeds of up to 100Gbps, ideal for data center interconnects and global WAN networks.
IDQ integrates quantum key generation and quantum key distribution (QKD) to ensure long-term data protection against emerging cyber threats. Backed by investors like SK Telecom and Quantum Wave Fund, the company has raised $10.8 million to date.
5. QuintessenceLabs
QuintessenceLabs is a Series B company delivering advanced quantum encryption-based data security solutions. Its product suite includes quantum true random number generators, enterprise key and policy managers, and a vendor-neutral SDK for seamless integration.
The company’s technologies enable file encryption across cloud, network, and mobile environments, with a focus on high-assurance random number generation and robust key management.
