Ripple has unveiled a plan to transition the XRP Ledger to post-quantum cryptography by 2028. The decision follows research by Google Quantum AI showing that the cryptography used across most blockchains could be broken by powerful quantum computers.
Ripple analysts say assets remain safe for now, but the threat is no longer purely theoretical. They highlight a key risk: attackers may already be collecting data from the public blockchain today and waiting for quantum hardware to catch up.
“Every transaction on the XRP Ledger reveals an account’s public key — which is why long-term holders face the highest risk,” the report notes.
Four Phases of the Transition
Ripple says the XRP Ledger has an advantage over most blockchains: built-in key rotation allows users to change keys without recreating accounts or moving assets.
“On its own, this doesn’t solve the quantum problem, but it provides a foundation for migration — something other networks will have to build from scratch,” analysts say.
The company has divided the transition to post-quantum cryptography into four stages.
- The first stage is an emergency response plan for the moment when classical cryptography is broken: the network would automatically switch to quantum-resistant accounts, while zero-knowledge proofs are being considered for secure asset migration.
- The second stage will take place in the first half of 2026 and includes risk assessment and testing of quantum-resistant algorithms. Ripple is working with Project Eleven, which is building a hybrid signature system, testing it at the validator level, and developing a prototype of a secure custodial wallet.
- The third stage is scheduled for the second half of 2026. Post-quantum signature schemes will run alongside existing ones on test networks, allowing developers to evaluate performance without affecting the main network.
The fourth stage is planned for 2028. A full transition will follow: a new amendment introducing native post-quantum cryptography will be added to the ecosystem, and the network will fully migrate.