Ethereum Foundation Launches Platform for Ethereum Post-Quantum Security Research
According to the Ethereum Foundation’s quantum team, Ethereum is targeting initial Layer-1 quantum-security upgrades by 2029 through four hard forks, while researchers estimate cryptographically relevant quantum computing is still 8 to 12 years away.
The Ethereum Foundation’s post-quantum security initiative now includes additional implementation details around its 2029 target for initial Layer-1 quantum-safe upgrades. The Foundation’s quantum team said this first phase is expected to be delivered through four key hard forks, and researchers estimate cryptographically relevant quantum computing remains 8 to 12 years away. The Foundation also formed a dedicated quantum team in January, and a developer testnet began testing some features in March. Earlier updates indicated that two planned changes could be included in the Hegota fork later this year, as the Foundation moves from research coordination toward staged protocol implementation.
- Layer-1: The base blockchain protocol itself, including the core network rules and functionality that applications and higher layers rely on.
- Hard fork: A blockchain protocol upgrade that changes network rules and requires participants to adopt the new version to stay compatible.
- Post-quantum security: Cryptographic protection intended to remain secure against attacks from future quantum computers capable of breaking current schemes.