Ethereum developers have released a new technical roadmap targeting dramatically faster transaction speeds and enhanced security. The plan, which involves a four-year development period, aims to reduce block production times from 12 seconds to just 2 seconds and slash finality confirmation from 16 minutes to between 6 and 16 seconds. The initiative also includes a phased implementation of quantum-resistant cryptography.
The Ethereum network has laid out a public roadmap for its fastest transformation to date. The plan, called “Strawmap,” details how the blockchain will become faster, simpler, and more secure.
Its primary goal is to increase speed by drastically reducing block production times. The current 12-second block time will be cut progressively to a target of just 2 seconds.
Vitalik Buterin explained that these reductions will follow a controlled pattern. “The reductions will follow a pattern based on square-root-of-two values,” he stated.
Faster data transmission will be enabled through enhanced peer-to-peer communication. This will allow nodes to share blocks and data more efficiently without compromising security.
The roadmap also targets a major reduction in the time required for transaction finality. Finality, which currently takes about 16 minutes, is planned to drop to between 6 and 16 seconds.
A new confirmation system will separate slots from finality to allow independent development. This overhaul will also incorporate post-quantum hash-based signatures for enhanced security.
The implementation of quantum resistance will occur in multiple progressive steps. Slots will receive quantum protection before the finality system achieves the same level of security.
The extensive changes are scheduled across a four-year development period. The plan includes seven scheduled system updates, with two named upgrades—Glamsterdam and Hegotá—confirmed for the coming year.
Buterin described the process as replacing each component to better define its role. The ultimate aim is an Ethereum system that operates with simplicity, quantum protection, and speed comparable to modern financial systems.
