- Stellar’s Quantum Preparedness Plan aims to protect the network from future quantum computing threats to cryptography.
- A 2026 upgrade will introduce NIST-approved quantum-safe signatures for Soroban contract accounts.
- A 2027 protocol update will add quantum-safe signers to existing accounts while preserving addresses and account history.
Stellar has introduced its Quantum Preparedness Plan (QPP), a network-wide program designed to transition the blockchain toward quantum-safe cryptography. According to Build on Stellar, the initiative targets threats posed by future quantum computers that could break existing cryptographic systems. The roadmap outlines upgrades through 2027, allowing Stellar accounts to adopt quantum-safe signing methods while keeping existing addresses and account histories intact.
Quantum Risks Drive New Migration Strategy
According to Stellar, quantum computers could eventually break the elliptic curve cryptography securing most blockchains. The network noted that the threat extends beyond digital assets and affects technologies such as TLS, SSH, and code-signing systems.
Recent research has intensified attention on the issue. Stellar cited findings from INRIA researchers showing lower quantum resource requirements for breaking 256-bit elliptic curves. Additionally, the network pointed to updated guidance from the National Institute of Standards and Technology and Google’s internal 2029 post-quantum readiness target.
As attention shifts toward preparedness, Stellar identified two key risks. The first involves network integrity through validator signature forgery. The second, and more significant challenge, involves account takeovers through compromised Ed25519 public keys.
Account Structure Offers Different Approach
Unlike some blockchains, Stellar separates account identity from signing keys. Consequently, users can rotate signing credentials without changing account addresses.
According to the network, this structure removes the need to transfer balances to new accounts during migration. Instead, users will add quantum-safe signers, adjust authorization weights, and later remove legacy Ed25519 signers.
However, Stellar noted that quantum-safe signer types do not yet exist on the protocol. Therefore, QPP focuses on creating those signer types alongside the supporting verification infrastructure.
Roadmap Targets 2026 And 2027 Upgrades
The first stage begins in 2026 through Soroban contract accounts. Stellar plans to add support for ML-DSA-44 and ML-DSA-65, two signature standards finalized by NIST.
Next, a 2027 protocol upgrade will introduce quantum-safe signers directly to traditional Stellar accounts. Existing accounts will keep their addresses while adding new signer types through standard account operations.
Stellar said activation timing for phasing out Ed25519 signatures remains undecided. Meanwhile, the network plans community discussions covering dormant accounts, recovery mechanisms, validators, wallets, custodians, SDK maintainers, and Soroban developers as technical specifications move forward.
