Ripple and Algorand Progress on Quantum Security Amid Ongoing Challenges
Ripple and Algorand are making progress toward post-quantum security but still face challenges.
Algorand has introduced Falcon-based post-quantum signatures in State Proofs since 2022, enhancing security for historical ledger confirmations. However, the network relies on cryptographic components that are not yet quantum-resistant, including elliptic-curve cryptography and Ed25519 signatures that could be compromised by a powerful quantum computer.
The company plans to research a post-quantum Verifiable Random Function in early 2027 and aims to achieve comprehensive quantum resilience across the network by the end of that year. This suggests its journey to full security is ongoing, making claims about complete quantum-readiness premature.
Ripple's roadmap targets full post-quantum security by 2028 but encompasses more than just wallet signatures. The company is actively testing hybrid post-quantum signing, evaluating validator performance, and a prototype for quantum-secure custody. These tests account for the impact of larger signature sizes, additional storage requirements, and throughput effects.