 ▲ Bitcoin (BTC), Quantum Computer/ChatGPT-generated image |
Amid growing concerns that advances in quantum computing technology could fundamentally shake Bitcoin’s (BTC) security framework, voices within the Ethereum community have warned that Bitcoin’s conservative structure may hinder its ability to respond to the looming threat.
According to Cointelegraph on February 20 (local time), Justin Drake, a researcher at the Ethereum Foundation, expressed deep concern about the potential risk that quantum computers could neutralize Bitcoin’s private keys. Drake noted that once quantum computing reaches a critical threshold, the cryptographic algorithms underpinning Bitcoin could be deciphered almost instantly.
Quantum computers possess computational power far surpassing that of existing supercomputers, making them a potential force capable of breaking Bitcoin’s current encryption system. Drake emphasized, “Although there is still time before the practical threat of quantum computing materializes, the Bitcoin ecosystem must begin preparing quantum-resistant technologies now.” He warned that without innovation in security signature schemes, trust across the entire network could collapse.
At the heart of the controversy is Bitcoin’s lack of technical flexibility. Drake pointed out that, unlike Ethereum (ETH), Bitcoin faces significant difficulty in implementing protocol changes and suffers from rigid governance. While Bitcoin tends to resist change in the name of network stability, such characteristics could become a critical weakness in the face of radical technological shifts like quantum computing.
Although alternative technologies such as quantum-resistant signatures do exist, implementing them on the Bitcoin network would require an unprecedented level of consensus. Ethereum maintains a relatively flexible upgrade system, whereas Bitcoin has a strong aversion to hard forks and often takes years to implement even a single soft fork. Ultimately, rather than the existence of technical solutions, the execution capability of the Bitcoin community is likely to determine the future direction of its security.
As Bitcoin prices fluctuate sensitively in response to changes in the external environment, security issues that threaten its technical foundation could exert significant downward pressure on the broader market. If the pace of quantum computing development exceeds expectations, investor anxiety could easily escalate into fear. For Bitcoin to maintain its status as digital gold, it is crucial to establish flexible governance that embraces change and to implement forward-looking security measures.
*Disclaimer: This article is for investment reference only and we are not responsible for any losses resulting from investment decisions based on it. The content should be interpreted solely for informational purposes.*