Blockchain and Quantum Computing
Brandon Rodenburg, Stephen P. Pappas
Abstract
This seminal report by MITRE researchers examines the theoretical implications of quantum computing for current blockchain cryptographic standards. The authors explore how Shor's algorithm potentially threatens the integrity of elliptic curve cryptography used in popular blockchain systems like Bitcoin and Ethereum. The report provides a structured overview of quantum threats, including the ability to solve discrete logarithm problems and integer factorization, which form the bedrock of current digital signature schemes. It argues that while universal fault-tolerant quantum computers remain in the development phase, the long-term viability of current blockchain architectures depends on proactive migration to quantum-resistant primitives. The methodology includes a threat model analysis and a discussion on the cryptographic agility required to update consensus mechanisms and wallet architectures against future adversarial capabilities.
Key Findings
- 1Current blockchain signature schemes rely on mathematical assumptions vulnerable to Shor's algorithm.
- 2The development of fault-tolerant quantum computers poses a systemic risk to transaction immutability.
- 3Cryptographic agility is essential for future protocol upgrades.
- 4Quantum risk assessment must be integrated into long-term blockchain architectural planning.
Topics
Citation
BibTeX
@misc{blockchainand2017,
title = {Blockchain and Quantum Computing},
author = {Brandon Rodenburg and Stephen P. Pappas},
year = {2017},
howpublished = {\url{https://www.mitre.org/sites/default/files/publications/17-4039-blockchain-and-quantum-computing.pdf}},
}Knowledge Explorer
Explore Related Concepts
See how Blockchain and Quantum Computing connects to glossary terms, books, and other research in the Knowledge Graph.