Ethereum Targets Quantum-Resistant Layer 1 Network by 2029
Ethereum's developers are racing to complete the Layer 1 network transition by the end of 2029, targeting quantum-resistant security. In tandem with this transition, Hegota plans to initiate an intermediate step towards transitioning account signatures to stronger ones beginning at the end of 2026.
Validators currently use compact 96-byte BLS signatures, where thousands of signatures are combined into one compact aggregate signature. However, leanXMSS signatures, which provide similar security but with respect to quantum computing attacks, will grow to approximately 3100 bytes in size if implemented.
To mitigate this potential growth increase, leanVM is being developed to reduce those signatures by approximately 250 times. Meanwhile, EIP-8141 offers another approach that allows individual accounts to make their own choice regarding usage of safer signature options.