Ripple Proposes Phased Quantum-Resistant Upgrade for XRP Ledger

On August 29, Ripple stated it is developing a long-term upgrade plan for the XRP Ledger to address the threat of quantum computing, aiming to prevent future quantum computers from potentially cracking existing cryptographic mechanisms and exposing private keys.

The plan is divided into four phases, including assessing network risks, testing quantum-resistant cryptographic schemes, running existing security mechanisms in parallel with quantum-resistant alternatives, and driving a full network migration if necessary. Ripple noted that the XRP Ledger's existing account key replacement feature may facilitate a smooth transition in the future, but broader rule changes still require coordination among independent validators. Bitcoin and Ethereum developers are also researching post-quantum cryptographic migration plans to address potential "Q-Day" risks.

[TechFlow]