QANplatform has recently introduced the world’s first quantum-resistant blockchain testnet that is compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). This testnet allows developers to write smart contracts using any programming language. According to Johann Polecsak, co-founder and CTO of QANplatform, this is the first EVM-compatible testnet to offer quantum-resistant cybersecurity.
The need for post-quantum security has become more urgent since December 2023, when IBM Condor, the second-largest quantum processor with 1,121 qubits, was launched. Polecsak explains that existing blockchain networks like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana cannot easily adopt quantum-resistant security measures due to their decentralized nature, which would have a significant negative impact. However, QANplatform’s new testnet enables EVM-compatible protocols to test their migration process to a quantum-resistant alternative without risking user funds on the mainnet.
This testnet announcement follows the adoption of QANplatform’s quantum-resistant technology by the first European country in March. The technology protects government-owned cybersecurity infrastructure against quantum computing attacks.
Governments worldwide are already preparing for the post-quantum era. In 2018, the European Commission initiated the Quantum Flagship research initiative with a budget of at least 1 billion euros ($1.078 billion) over a span of 10 years. QANplatform’s Polecsak emphasizes that quantum computing is already a significant security threat for everyday internet users, making these efforts necessary.
Not only are governments taking action, but large companies are also gearing up for a post-quantum future. Apple has introduced an update in February to future-proof iMessages with post-quantum cryptography, making it the first among a few quantum-proof messaging providers. Signal messaging app also launched a “quantum-resistant” encryption upgrade in September 2023, but Apple claims to be the first to reach “level 3” encryption.
While it may take more time for quantum computers to fully develop, Polecsak stresses the importance of being ahead of the curve in terms of post-quantum security. With stable qubits, quantum computers will be able to break today’s main cybersecurity algorithms. In light of this, QANplatform’s quantum-resistant blockchain testnet is a crucial step towards ensuring secure and resilient blockchain networks.