Solana starts testing quantum-proof cryptography

Solana is preparing for quantum-proof cryptography, although the chain does not see immediate danger. The network has partnered with Project Eleven to test quantum-proof signatures. 

Solana will prepare for post-quantum security by working on new cryptographic solutions. In partnership with Project Eleven, the chain will prepare for a new quantum-proof signature. 

Quantum technology is still not considered a threat to crypto in the coming year, but networks are already seeking quantum-proof tools. 

Project Eleven works on migrating digital assets 

Solana has partnered with Project Eleven, the leader in quantum-proof cryptography and migrations for existing digital assets. The organization will run a full assessment on Solana for quantum readiness and create post-quantum digital signatures on a Solana testnet. 

Project Eleven researched Solana’s risk for core infrastructure, including wallets, validators, and other cryptographic protections. The testnet will also check if end-to-end quantum-resistant transactions are viable on Solana. 

‘Our responsibility is to ensure Solana remains secure not just today, but decades into the future,’ said Matt Sorg, VP, Technology at the Solana Foundation. 

‘The Solana ecosystem’s culture of shipping will continue with the release of a second client and state-of-the-art consensus mechanism this year. Efforts like Project Eleven’s reflect early, concrete steps to strengthen the network and stay at the forefront, ensuring Solana’s resiliency long-term,’ said Sorg.

The post-quantum project has already assessed several of the leading digital asset networks. There is no single standard on quantum-proofing a blockchain, but multiple networks are already working on a new address format and quantum-proof cryptography.

Quantum research is expanding, although currently the threats are only theoretical, and more than a decade may pass before real threats to blockchains. Despite this, Project Eleven already evaluates migration paths, standards, and adoption. 

Will quantum computing break Solana? 

Quantum computers are still in development, though Google has made forays into breaking encryption. As Cryptopolitan reported, Google estimated much lower requirements to break RSA encryption with quantum computing. 

Solana’s founder, Anatoly Yakovenko, has spoken of a 50% probability that quantum computing will crack Bitcoin’s encryption in the next few years. The SHA-256 encryption may still be too difficult for quantum computers. 

Solana uses Ed25519 cryptographic encryption, which is not considered quantum-proof. This means public keys can be used to derive private keys and gain control of assets. 

For now, the quantum threat is not viable, since the physical creation of quantum computers is still limited to laboratories and private testing. Despite this, Solana and other altcoin networks are not considered quantum-ready in theory.

Get seen where it counts. Advertise in Cryptopolitan Research and reach crypto’s sharpest investors and builders.