NEAR Prepares for Quantum Computing Threat with Dilithium Protocol Update

NEAR is revamping its security model to prepare for the day when quantum computers can break current crypto security systems. This effort began in Q2 2026, with the initial modification including ML-DSA or 'Dilithium' to the protocol.

Users will be able to store and grant permission to their assets using quantum-safe keys. This protection also extends to assets issued on other blockchains using Chain Signatures and NEAR intents.

The Meteor Wallet already supports this solution, with Ledger and other wallet developers continuing to integrate it. The next step is to reduce expenses since post-quantum signatures require significantly more space than classical solutions.