NIST has initiated a process to solicit, evaluate, and standardize lightweight cryptographic algorithms that are suitable for use in constrained environments where the performance of current NIST cryptographic standards is not acceptable.

In recent years, there has been increased demand for cryptographic standards that are tailored for constrained devices. NIST has decided to create a portfolio of lightweight cryptographic algorithms, designed for limited use in applications and environments where cryptographic operations are performed by constrained devices that are unable to use existing NIST standards.

As a first step in this process, NIST solicited public comments on submission requirements and evaluation criteria for the lightweight cryptography standardization process. The comments received are posted at https://csrc.nist.rip/Projects/Lightweight-Cryptography.The purpose of this notice is to announce that nominations for candidate algorithms for lightweight cryptographic standards may now be submitted, up until the final deadline of February 25, 2019.

Complete instructions on how to submit a candidate package, including the minimal acceptability requirements, are posted at https://csrc.nist.rip/Projects/Lightweight-Cryptography. The finalized evaluation criteria which will be used to assess the submissions are also posted at the same website.