Algorand aims for full post-quantum security by 2027, with updates starting in Q3 2026, enhancing both user and developer experience.
Algorand Foundation has launched a roadmap targeting "broad quantum resilience" for its network by 2027, with protocol updates set to begin in the third quarter of 2026.
"Quantum computers won't wait for the industry to catch up," stated Algorand in a recent announcement.
Preparations for post-quantum security began in 2022, focusing on the implementation of Falcon post-quantum signatures, which are already operational on its Mainnet. As part of this initiative, the foundation has released State Proofs, compact certificates signed using the Falcon scheme every 256 rounds.
Future Protocol Enhancements
The upcoming protocol update will allow the use of native post-quantum accounts without needing workarounds, enhancing user experience and security. Plans include creating Falcon-1024 accounts based on a standard 25-word seed phrase and supporting multiple signature schemes, including Falcon-512 and ML-DSA, while maintaining existing address formats.
By late 2026, the foundation aims to introduce multi-signature support for various cryptographic techniques and transition its treasury to utilize post-quantum accounts for staking participants.
Additionally, the foundation is working on updating its consensus mechanism, which currently relies on elliptic curve cryptography and is not entirely quantum-resistant. Research on a post-quantum Variance Random Function (VRF) is expected to be ready by early 2027, potentially incorporating a hybrid model for consensus messages.
“Post-quantum security cannot be retrofitted after Q-Day,” emphasized Bruno Martins, CTO of Algorand Foundation.
The roadmap remains subject to change as the standards for post-quantum cryptography evolve. In recent tests by BNB Chain developers, the transition to quantum-resistant security was confirmed theoretically feasible, though it resulted in a notable performance decrease.
