The Ethereum Foundation has published a new technical roadmap outlining plans to protect the $260 billion blockchain network from future quantum computing threats. Researchers estimate a series of critical upgrades, including four key code forks, could be completed by 2029. The foundation stated that while the quantum threat is not imminent, preparatory work must begin well before cryptographically relevant quantum computers arrive.
The Ethereum Foundation revealed a new site dedicated to upgrading the network against quantum computing threats. On Tuesday, the non-profit published a roadmap detailing how developer teams were preparing for ultra-powerful computers.
Researchers estimate a host of initial upgrades could be completed by 2029. The primary changes revolve around four key forks to the network’s code.
The foundation’s quantum team stated, “Quantum computing will eventually break the public-key cryptography that secures ownership, authentication, and consensus across all digital systems.” They do not expect this to occur imminently. Still, the work must begin well before the threat arrives.
Quantum computing poses a legitimate threat to blockchain cryptography. A hypothetical quantum computer could derive a private key and spend a wallet’s funds in a matter of hours.
This threat is top of mind for core developers across the industry. BlackRock explicitly flagged quantum computing as a risk factor in a May filing for its iShares Bitcoin Trust.
The proposed upgrades include four hard forks labeled I, J, L, and M. The first two are already being considered for inclusion in the upcoming Hegota fork expected later this year.
Full execution-layer migration would take additional years beyond 2029. Researchers based this on their team’s current assessment of the timeline.
