The DocuSign QSCD Appliance has a hardware-based entropy source (IDQ’s Quantis IDQ6MC1 chip) that meets the requirements of NIST SP 800 90B. The IDQ6MC1 is a quantum random number generator that generates entropy directly from a quantum process.
Source: ID Quantique
Welcome to the Quantum Case Files: Real-World Impact series! At the Quantum Innovation Summit, we are committed to fostering the adoption of quantum technology and showcasing real-world applications that demonstrate its transformative potential. This series presents case studies that highlight how quantum technology is making a tangible impact across various sectors.
Today’s feature focuses on the DocuSign QSCD Appliance, a state-of-the-art solution that integrates quantum-level security into digital signature processes. We’ll explore how DocuSign’s Qualified Signature Creation Device (QSCD) leverages Quantum Random Number Generation (QRNG) to meet strict security, privacy, and data residency requirements worldwide.
What is the DocuSign QSCD Appliance?
The DocuSign Qualified Signature Creation Device (QSCD) is a highly secure, high-capacity, network-attached Hardware Security Module (HSM). Designed for robust cryptographic operations, it allows users to perform secure digital transactions, from signing contracts to encrypting data. With millions of users globally, DocuSign’s QSCD Appliance enhances trust in digital signatures, meeting compliance standards such as FIPS 140-2 Level 3 and Common Criteria (CC).
This standalone multi-chip device includes Commercial Off-the-Shelf (COTS) hardware, tamper-resistant enclosures, a hardened operating system, and integrated server software. Users access the QSCD Appliance through the Web Server Signing Application (SSA), enabling secure cryptographic operations such as digital signatures and AES encryption/decryption.
Key Features of the DocuSign QSCD Appliance
The DocuSign QSCD Appliance is equipped with features that ensure optimal security and functionality for secure digital transactions:
- RSA Digital Signatures and Verification:Ensures document integrity and authenticity.
- AES Encryption and Decryption:Provides advanced encryption to protect sensitive data.
- Authenticated and Encrypted Communication:Secures communication with the QSCD Appliance.
- REST Protocol over HTTPS (HTTP over TLS):Protects data during transmission using secure protocols.
- Tamper-Responsive Enclosure:Guards against physical interference and unauthorized access.
- Secure Backup Capability:Allows secure backups to maintain data integrity and continuity.
The Role of QRNG in Enhancing Security
The DocuSign QSCD Appliance features a Quantum Random Number Generator (QRNG), powered by ID Quantique’s Quantis IDQ6MC1 chip. This QRNG provides a hardware-based entropy source that generates randomness from quantum processes, creating cryptographic keys with an exceptionally high level of unpredictability. This quantum-derived randomness plays a crucial role in protecting digital signatures from being compromised, offering stronger security than traditional algorithm-based random number generators.
Validated against NIST SP 800-90B standards, the QRNG undergoes continuous testing for quality, including Repetition Count Tests and Adaptive Proportion Tests. The secure entropy provided by QRNG helps the QSCD Appliance achieve an enhanced level of cryptographic security, setting a high standard for digital transactions and safeguarding against modern cyber threats.
How DocuSign’s QSCD Appliance is Elevating Cybersecurity Across Industries
The inclusion of QRNG technology in DocuSign’s QSCD Appliance represents a significant advancement for industries that depend on secure data handling. QRNG-generated randomness strengthens cryptographic keys, which are essential for sectors such as finance, healthcare, and government, where the protection of sensitive data is paramount.
The QRNG technology within DocuSign’s QSCD Appliance represents a new benchmark for digital security, supporting these sectors in safeguarding digital transactions and sensitive data.
How the DocuSign QSCD Appliance is Changing Digital Security Standards
Traditional random number generators, which rely on algorithms, are inherently more predictable than quantum-based sources. QRNG offers an additional layer of security by producing high-quality randomness, critical as quantum computing progresses and poses potential risks to conventional encryption methods. By incorporating QRNG, DocuSign’s QSCD Appliance ensures that cryptographic keys remain highly secure, establishing new standards for digital trust and cybersecurity resilience.
This appliance is a critical part of DocuSign’s commitment to advancing security in digital transactions. Its tamper-responsive design and secure backup features prepare industries to navigate the evolving cybersecurity landscape while ensuring robust protection against current and future threats.
Real-World Applications of DocuSign eSignature with Quantum Security
Trusted by over a million customers and billions of users globally, DocuSign’s eSignature solutions secure essential agreements, including contracts, offer letters, and account openings. With the QSCD Appliance’s quantum-enhanced security, organizations can trust that transactions are safeguarded, even in remote and digital-first environments.
The DocuSign QSCD Appliance sets a precedent for how industries can leverage quantum security to protect against the complexities of modern cyber threats. By setting new standards for cryptographic security, the appliance demonstrates how quantum technology can help industries future-proof digital transactions, creating secure, resilient frameworks for years to come.
ID Quantique: The Quantum Technology Partner Behind DocuSign’s Security
ID Quantique (IDQ), a leading provider of quantum-safe solutions, powers the QRNG in the DocuSign QSCD Appliance. With IDQ’s advanced technology, the QSCD Appliance achieves top-tier encryption, providing the strongest level of defense against evolving cyber threats and ensuring secure digital transactions well into the future.
As we continue our Quantum Case Files series, we will share additional case studies showcasing how quantum technology is delivering secure, efficient, and future-ready solutions across various sectors.
Source of the Case File: ID Quantique
Disclaimer:
The Quantum Case Files: Real-World Impact series presents case studies highlighting quantum technology applications independently developed by third-party organizations. All intellectual property rights, including but not limited to patents, copyrights, trademarks, trade secrets, proprietary methodologies, data, and outcomes associated with these case studies, are solely vested with the respective organizations. The Quantum Innovation Summit, Vernewell Group, and any affiliated entities assume no ownership, endorsement, warranty, or responsibility for the accuracy, performance, or replicability of the technologies, methodologies, or results discussed herein.
This information is provided exclusively for educational and informational purposes and should not be construed as professional advice, recommendation, or guarantee. Readers seeking to replicate, utilize, or otherwise engage with the information presented are advised to conduct independent due diligence and consult directly with the relevant third-party organizations regarding rights, permissions, and applicable terms.
