Solana prepares for the quantum era with new cryptography trials

Solana developers have initiated a test of cryptography designed to withstand quantum attacks. They made this statement at a time when quantum computing is shifting from being a distant concept to a crucial matter this year. Notably, the developers’ efforts aim to prepare the ecosystem for a future that today’s technology cannot guarantee.

This announcement followed the Solana Foundation’s release of a statement, in which it announced its partnership with Project Eleven, a tech company specializing in post-quantum security for blockchain. According to the organization, this collaboration aims to determine whether the cryptographic systems established in Solana can withstand the threat of future quantum computers. 

Several analysts commented on this move. They highlighted that there are heightened worries in the crypto industry regarding these advancements in quantum computing. According to them, individuals believe that there is a high likelihood that these advancements could threaten the safeguard methods blockchains apply to transactions and validators.

The Solana Foundation partners with Project Eleven to strengthen its blockchains

In an X post, the Solana Foundation stated that, “Quantum computers aren’t here yet, but the Solana Foundation is getting ready for that possibility.” According to the organization, they decided to partner with Project Eleven to assess their readiness for any potential quantum threats and assist with this move. 

Following this collaboration, reports highlighted that several developers from different blockchains, who like to strengthen their blockchains, ignited debates regarding how their networks can effectively address the dangers caused by quantum computing. In the meantime, the Solana Foundation has made its intentions clear, which are first to introduce post-quantum digital signatures on a test network.

Regarding this decision, reports inquired why the organization chose Project Eleven for the plan. Respondingly, the Solana Foundation highlighted that apart from the tech firm primarily focusing on evaluating the risk to Bitcoin, it also carried out an assessment and established a testnet on Solana that utilizes digital signatures developed to be shielded against quantum computers.

Sources close to the situation mentioned that this testnet was designed to determine whether transactions that can withstand quantum attacks can operate effectively at the network level with existing technology without causing interruptions.

Matt Sorg, Vice President of Technology at the Solana Foundation, commented on the topic of discussion. He claimed that their duty is to ensure Solana remains protected from now on. To illustrate this commitment to protect the blockchain, reports mentioned that recent efforts by Solana developers are built on previous attempts to mitigate the dangers related to quantum computing.

Meanwhile, it is worth noting that the network successfully introduced an optional wallet feature, known as the Solana Winternitz Vault, in January of this year. The feature utilizes a hash-based signature system designed to protect user funds. This system develops new cryptographic keys intended for each transaction. It also permits users to freely decide if they want to use it rather than changing the protocol itself.

“The culture of innovation in the Solana ecosystem will keep going with the launch of a second client and advanced consensus mechanism this year,” Sorg stated. “Initiatives like Project Eleven are important early steps to enhance the network’s strength and maintain Solana’s resilience over time.” 

Aptos follows Solana’s lead 

Apart from Solana, other blockchain networks have also reported getting ready to face similar challenges. An example of these networks is Aptos. On the blockchain network, a suggestion known as AIP-137 was submitted. This suggestion aims to launch the network’s first post-quantum signature option, pending approval by token holders.

Sources familiar with the situation told reporters that this proposal would further strengthen SLH-DSA. This stateless, hash-based digital signature method is popular among researchers at the US National Institute of Standards and Technology. 

Interestingly, Aptos Labs claimed that once this suggestion is approved, it will not need a full network migration. Following this claim, sources noted that the Ed25519 scheme, which currently manages transaction verification on Aptos, would still be considered the key signature method. For SLH-DSA, they noted that it would be made available as an optional account type, particularly for users seeking post-quantum security.

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