Quantum computing may strengthen Bitcoin signatures in future

Quantum computing has the potential to improve Bitcoin's (CRYPTO:BTC) security despite concerns that it could compromise cryptographic encryption.

According to Adam Back, CEO of Blockstream, while the post-quantum era is still several decades away, it could result in stronger Bitcoin signatures.

Back explained that while quantum computing may pose a threat to current encryption methods, it could also lead to more secure Bitcoin networks.

He noted that quantum computing's ability to perform computational tasks at extremely high speeds is a key factor in its potential to affect encryption algorithms.

On December 21, Back discussed how post-quantum (PQ) signature research will eventually produce more compact and secure signatures for Bitcoin.

"PQ signature research will eventually produce conservative well-reviewed, more compact signatures, and Bitcoin can add those schemes as another option," Back wrote in a post on X.

Bitcoin uses signatures to secure transactions, ensuring that they cannot be altered by unauthorised parties.

These signatures rely on private keys to verify ownership and the integrity of each transaction.

As quantum computing evolves, Back believes PQ signature schemes could offer enhanced protection for Bitcoin's network.

Though quantum computing’s rapid advancements have raised concerns, recent developments in the field have also sparked discussions about the future impact on crypto security.

Google’s quantum computing chip Willow, for instance, is capable of solving problems that would take traditional supercomputers billions of years to process.

However, experts like Kevin Rose argue that the technology is far from being a threat to crypto encryption.

He estimated that it would require a quantum computer with around 13 million qubits to break Bitcoin's encryption.

Ethereum (CRYPTO:ETH) co-founder Vitalik Buterin is also preparing for the post-quantum era, suggesting a hard fork to address potential risks for Ethereum’s network.

At the time of reporting, the Bitcoin (BTC) price was $95,145.06.