Ethereum Needs to Start Getting Ready for Quantum Computing Risks Now, According to Vitalik Buterin

Vitalik Buterin Urges Ethereum to Prepare for Quantum Computing Threats

Vitalik Buterin, one of Ethereum’s co-founders, is advocating for the blockchain to proactively implement cryptographic defenses capable of withstanding future quantum computing attacks—well before such threats become imminent. He cautions that postponing these upgrades until quantum computers are a real danger could leave Ethereum’s security lagging behind, creating a race the network cannot afford to lose.

In a recent post on X, Buterin emphasized the importance of Ethereum’s foundational layer passing what he calls the “walkaway test.” This principle suggests that the network’s value and security should not be dependent on continuous updates or oversight. According to Buterin, Ethereum should be able to stand the test of time, remaining reliable and secure even if development slows or ceases altogether.

“Ethereum as a blockchain must embody the qualities we expect from its applications. Therefore, it too must pass the walkaway test,” Buterin stated.

Central to his argument is the looming risk posed by quantum computing. Buterin insists that Ethereum should not delay adopting quantum-resistant cryptography, even though current quantum computers are not yet capable of compromising blockchain security. He warns against the temptation to postpone these changes for the sake of short-term efficiency gains, arguing that while individual users can choose when to adapt, the protocol itself must act decisively.

He further asserts, “We should aim to reach a point where we can confidently say, ‘Ethereum’s protocol is cryptographically secure for the next hundred years,’ and take pride in achieving that milestone as soon as possible.”

Shifting Perspectives on Quantum Risk

Buterin’s latest remarks build on his previous discussions about quantum computing’s potential impact on blockchain security, but now place greater emphasis on the dangers of waiting too long. His stance has evolved since 2019, when he was less concerned about advancements in quantum technology. Today, he argues that networks like Ethereum cannot afford to treat quantum resistance as a last-minute fix once the technology matures.

Why Blockchains Are at Risk

Blockchains such as Bitcoin and Ethereum currently rely on elliptic-curve cryptography, which is secure against conventional computers. However, sufficiently advanced quantum computers could use Shor’s algorithm to derive private keys from public ones, undermining the security of these networks.

Although today’s quantum hardware is still too limited and unstable to pose an immediate threat, ongoing advancements in hardware, error correction, and system reliability have reignited discussions about when these risks might become real.

Debate Over Timing and Trade-Offs

While Buterin calls for swift action, others in the crypto community caution that moving too quickly could introduce new challenges. Charles Hoskinson, founder of Cardano and also an Ethereum co-founder, points out that post-quantum cryptography often comes with significant drawbacks—such as slower performance, larger proof sizes, and reduced efficiency. He notes, “Adopting these measures could drastically decrease your blockchain’s throughput.”

Long-Term Technical Priorities for Ethereum

Beyond quantum resistance, Buterin has outlined several technical goals to ensure Ethereum’s long-term viability. These include:

• Developing an architecture that can scale to thousands of transactions per second using technologies like zero-knowledge EVM validation and data availability sampling, with future improvements managed mainly through parameter adjustments.
• Designing a robust and lasting state model, and moving beyond reliance on “enshrined” signature algorithms.
• Implementing a gas schedule that is resilient to denial-of-service attacks.
• Ensuring proof-of-stake economics remain decentralized over time.
• Building block production mechanisms that resist centralization and censorship.

Buterin envisions completing these upgrades in the coming years, suggesting that future changes should focus on optimizing clients and making minor parameter tweaks, rather than frequent major overhauls.

“Each year, we should accomplish at least one of these objectives, if not more,” he wrote. “Let’s make the right decisions based on solid understanding, avoid half-measures, and strengthen Ethereum’s technical and social resilience for the long haul.”