Haciyev Reşit 
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has announced a comprehensive “post-quantum roadmap” aimed at strengthening Ethereum’s cryptographic infrastructure against potential future threats from quantum computers. According to Buterin, large-scale quantum computers do not yet pose an immediate active threat. However, rapid technological progress could make Ethereum’s current security model vulnerable sooner than expected. The proposed plan includes significant changes to cryptographic signatures, data availability mechanisms, and account structures to ensure Ethereum’s long-term security.
A Post-Quantum Security Strategy for Ethereum
In a statement shared on X, Buterin emphasized that Ethereum must reinforce its cryptographic foundations before the quantum computing era fully arrives. Although quantum technology has not yet become a practical threat, Buterin warned that meaningful quantum risks could emerge before 2028. He urged developers to begin preparations now rather than reacting later. While the Bitcoin community generally takes a more cautious stance regarding quantum threats, Ethereum developers are adopting a more proactive approach. The Ethereum Foundation has already:
- Established a dedicated post-quantum research team
- Launched regular technical meetings on quantum security
- Announced incentive programs to develop quantum-resistant cryptography
These steps are seen as critical measures to protect Ethereum’s long-term security against potential quantum attacks.
Four Key Vulnerable Areas
Buterin’s roadmap identifies four major areas where Ethereum could be vulnerable to quantum computers:
- BLS signatures used in the consensus layer
- KZG-based data availability structures
- ECDSA-based externally owned account (EOA) signatures
- Certain zero-knowledge (ZK) proof systems
Among these, the ECDSA signature scheme—currently the foundation of Ethereum accounts—is considered one of the most vulnerable components in a quantum scenario.
Moving Beyond ECDSA: New Signature Systems
Buterin proposes gradually transitioning away from ECDSA-based accounts by expanding the native account abstraction model. This would allow users to adopt next-generation, quantum-resistant signature algorithms. A new transaction type called “framework transactions” would enable accounts to support multiple signature algorithms. Felix Lange, a developer at the Ethereum Foundation, emphasized the importance of this approach for exiting ECDSA. Buterin supports including this feature in the planned “Hegota” upgrade, expected in the second half of 2026.
The roadmap is not limited to signature systems. It also includes transitioning to quantum-resistant methods in data availability and verification processes. In this context, STARK-based proof systems are highlighted. While STARKs are considered more resistant to quantum attacks, they currently come with high computational costs. Buterin suggests that recursive proof aggregation techniques could help make these systems more efficient and manageable at scale.
Ethereum Foundation Accelerates Quantum Research
The Ethereum Foundation has accelerated post-quantum security efforts by forming a specialized research team. It has also:
- Initiated regular quantum security meetings
- Announced a $1 million reward program to encourage development of quantum-resistant cryptography
However, implementing major protocol changes in a decentralized ecosystem like Ethereum requires broad community consensus, meaning the roadmap may take time to fully execute. Although quantum computers are not yet a practical threat, Ethereum developers are already taking proactive steps. Experts believe that Ethereum’s early action could help set post-quantum security standards across the broader blockchain industry. Upcoming upgrades in the coming years will reveal how quickly Ethereum can adapt to this emerging technological challenge.
You can also freely share your thoughts and comments about the topic in the comment section. Additionally, don’t forget to follow us on our Telegram, YouTube, and Twitter channels for the latest news and updates.