NTRU

The original lattice-based cryptosystem, invented in 1996 by Hoffstein, Pipher, and Silverman — decades ahead of its moment.

Core Principles & Analysis

• Predates the term 'post-quantum cryptography' — it was designed simply to be fast and compact.
• Patent encumbrance suppressed adoption for two decades; the patents have since expired.
• A variant, Streamlined NTRU Prime, became OpenSSH's first default post-quantum key exchange.

Specifications & Metrics

• FAMILY: Lattice (NTRU)
• STATUS: Round-3 finalist
• YEAR: 1996