Ethereum Takes Early Steps to Protect the Network From Quantum Threats

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The Ethereum Foundation is taking a decisive step to protect the network against one of the biggest long-term risks in technology: quantum computing.

In a recent update shared by researcher Justin Drake, post-quantum security was confirmed as a core part of Ethereum’s long-term roadmap rather than a distant research topic.

Key Takeaways

• The Ethereum Foundation has made post-quantum security a core part of its long-term roadmap
• A dedicated team is now focused on preparing the network for future quantum threats
• Funding, developer coordination, and live testing are already in progress

The concern is straightforward. Once powerful quantum computers become practical, they could break many of the cryptographic systems that currently secure blockchains. That includes wallet signatures, transaction approvals, and other fundamental security mechanisms. Ethereum’s developers believe preparing early is essential.

A Dedicated Team for Post-Quantum Security

To address this challenge, the Ethereum Foundation has formed a dedicated Post-Quantum (PQ) team. The group is led by cryptography engineer Thomas Coratger, with support from Emile, a key contributor to leanVM – a minimalist cryptographic system designed to remain secure even in a future where quantum computers exist.

According to Drake, the foundation has been quietly researching this area for years. Work began as early as 2019, but 2026 marks a turning point. Post-quantum security is now treated as a top strategic priority, with faster timelines and clearer goals.

From Research to Real Development

Ethereum is now shifting from theory to practical implementation. Regular developer sessions focused on post-quantum transactions are set to begin soon. These discussions will focus on user-facing security, including how transactions are signed, how accounts may evolve, and how multiple signatures could be combined more safely in the future.

At the same time, leanVM is emerging as a key technical building block. It is being positioned as a foundation for handling advanced cryptography in a more efficient and secure way.

Funding the Next Generation of Cryptography

The Ethereum Foundation is also backing its strategy with financial support. Two separate $1 million initiatives have been announced to strengthen cryptographic tools believed to be more resistant to quantum attacks.

One initiative focuses on improving the Poseidon hash function, which is widely used in zero-knowledge systems. The other supports broader research into post-quantum cryptographic techniques, helping attract talent and accelerate innovation across the ecosystem.

Live Testing Already Underway

Post-quantum security is not limited to planning and funding. Multiple Ethereum client teams are already running experimental post-quantum consensus networks. These test environments allow developers to see how new cryptographic approaches behave in real conditions.

The teams coordinate through regular interoperability calls, ensuring that different implementations remain compatible and that progress is shared across the network.

Preparing for a Quantum Future

Ethereum’s leadership has made it clear that this effort is about long-term resilience, not short-term headlines. The foundation plans to support the rollout with public events, educational materials, and content aimed at developers and enterprises.

By acting early, Ethereum is positioning itself to remain secure even as computing technology evolves in unpredictable ways.