Algorithms
What is MAYO?
Multivariate signature scheme from NIST's onramp signature competition. Smaller signatures than ML-DSA, larger public keys.
Decision context
Why MAYO matters
MAYO is a multivariate signature candidate being evaluated through NIST's additional-signature process. It may offer useful size or performance characteristics for some workloads, but it does not occupy the same standardization or assurance position as finalized ML-DSA and SLH-DSA.
How to evaluate MAYO
Track the exact competition round, specification and implementation revision. Test signatures and rejection paths against the matching vectors, and isolate experiments from production policies. Procurement and compliance materials should call MAYO a candidate until an applicable finalized standard and validated implementation exist.
Algorithms
Algorithms evidence boundary
Algorithm names alone do not establish security or deployment readiness. Parameter set, implementation, key and signature sizes, execution boundary, validation status, and failure behaviour all matter. Buyers should distinguish a standardized primitive from a product path that has independently demonstrated that primitive in production.
Deep dive
MAYO on QNSI
Multivariate quadratic signature scheme in the NIST PQC additional-signatures track. Short signatures and small public keys; trades signing speed against parameter size.
For parameter sets, key and signature sizes, NIST ACVP conformance status, and when to use it, see the full MAYO algorithm reference.
FAQ
Common questions
What is MAYO?
Multivariate signature scheme from NIST's onramp signature competition. Smaller signatures than ML-DSA, larger public keys.
Why does MAYO matter?
MAYO is a multivariate signature candidate being evaluated through NIST's additional-signature process. It may offer useful size or performance characteristics for some workloads, but it does not occupy the same standardization or assurance position as finalized ML-DSA and SLH-DSA.
How should MAYO be evaluated?
Track the exact competition round, specification and implementation revision. Test signatures and rejection paths against the matching vectors, and isolate experiments from production policies. Procurement and compliance materials should call MAYO a candidate until an applicable finalized standard and validated implementation exist.
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