Algorithms
What is Classic McEliece?
Code-based KEM from a 1978 cryptosystem with the longest cryptanalytic track record of any NIST candidate. Very large public keys (~261 KB at level 5) but very small ciphertexts (~96 bytes). NIST Round 4 finalist; QNSP supports it for HNDL-conservative deployments.
Deep dive
Classic McEliece on QNSP
The original code-based public-key cryptosystem, in continuous study since 1978 — by far the oldest cryptographic assumption in the PQC catalogue. Trades extremely large public keys for the most-studied security assumption available.
For parameter sets, key and signature sizes, NIST ACVP conformance status, and when to use it, see the full Classic McEliece algorithm reference.
FAQ
Common questions
What is Classic McEliece?
Code-based KEM from a 1978 cryptosystem with the longest cryptanalytic track record of any NIST candidate. Very large public keys (~261 KB at level 5) but very small ciphertexts (~96 bytes). NIST Round 4 finalist; QNSP supports it for HNDL-conservative deployments.
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