Solana tests quantum-resistant signatures in landmark security upgrade

Solana has become one of the first major Layer-1 networks to publicly demonstrate a functioning post-quantum signature system.

This follows the 16 December announcement of a deep security collaboration with Project Eleven. 

Also, the initiative marks one of the strongest early moves by any blockchain ecosystem to prepare for the long-term threat posed by quantum computing.

Solana completes full quantum threat assessment

As part of the engagement, Project Eleven conducted an extensive review of how future quantum advancements could compromise Solana’s infrastructure. 

The assessment examined validator identity risk, user wallet exposure, network-wide signature assumptions, and the potential for sophisticated “harvest now, decrypt later” attacks.

It allows malicious actors store encrypted blockchain data today, waiting for quantum capabilities to emerge in the future.

Furthermore, the review concluded with a detailed set of risks and mitigation pathways that the ecosystem can pursue as quantum hardware inches closer to practical capability.

Prototype testnet shows post-quantum Solana is already feasible

Most notably, Project Eleven deployed a working Solana testnet running post-quantum digital signatures end-to-end.

According to the company, the system supports practical, scalable transactions secured by quantum-resistant primitives — evidence that Solana can migrate to future-proof cryptography without compromising performance.

This demonstration places Solana ahead of nearly every major blockchain, including Bitcoin and Ethereum. These other blockchains currently rely on classical signature schemes vulnerable to quantum attacks.

Matt Sorg, VP of Technology at the Solana Foundation, said the work is part of a broader effort to keep the network secure well into the next decade:

‘Our responsibility is to ensure Solana remains secure not just today, but decades into the future. Efforts like Project Eleven’s reflect early, concrete steps to strengthen the network and stay at the forefront.’

A strategic edge as Solana upgrades its core architecture

The timing of this announcement is notable. The Solana ecosystem is already transitioning toward a more resilient architecture, including the upcoming release of a second client and state-of-the-art consensus mechanism. 

Adding quantum-safe groundwork on top of these upgrades positions Solana as a leading chain on both performance and long-term security.

Quantum safety is emerging as a key concern for institutions evaluating blockchain infrastructures. 

Future quantum computers could theoretically derive private keys from public addresses, forge validator identities, or rewrite high-value transaction history. 

Solana’s proactive approach signals readiness for a future in which cryptographic migration becomes mandatory across the industry.

The collaboration also underscores how major ecosystems and enterprise players are beginning to view quantum-safe cryptography as critical infrastructure, not a distant academic topic.

Final Thoughts

• Solana’s early investment in post-quantum testing positions it ahead of most major blockchains preparing for long-term cryptographic upgrades.
• As quantum migration becomes an industry-wide necessity, Solana’s prototype offers a practical blueprint for future network security.