Quantum Computing is developing at an unprecedented pace, posing an increasing threat to current encryption standards, including the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA) used by BTC, which has raised concerns about Bitcoin's long-term security within the cryptographic community.
Bitcoin industry pioneer Adam Back published a post today, recommending the SLH-DSA signature specification. The following article involves cryptographic technology, which may be of interest to those who want to explore further.
NIST Standardization Scheme
The powerful computing power of quantum computing can theoretically crack encryption algorithms like ECDSA that rely on large number factorization or discrete logarithm problems, which poses a fundamental security challenge to digital assets like Bitcoin that depend on such cryptographic techniques. If computing power is sufficient, it could potentially unlock blocks and compromise the chain's security.
Blockstream CEO Adam Back recommends adopting SLH-DSA (Stateless Hash-Based Digital Signature Algorithm), which has been standardized by the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and included in the FIPS 205 document, as the most suitable post-quantum signature solution.
Blockstream is not just talking but actively preparing, currently recruiting applied cryptographers focused on post-quantum Bitcoin security research to counter the future emergence of quantum computers.
SLH-DSA Combined with Schnorr Taproot
Adam Back further elaborated that he proposes combining SLH-DSA with Bitcoin's existing Schnorr Taproot functionality. The Taproot upgrade has already brought more efficient and private transaction methods to Bitcoin and enhanced script flexibility. By integrating a quantum-resistant signature mechanism into this framework, it hopes to achieve defense against quantum attacks without significantly altering Bitcoin's core protocol.
SLH-DSA belongs to stateless hash-based signature algorithms, with security based on well-studied hash functions rather than mathematical problems currently threatened by quantum computing. NIST's standardization means the algorithm has undergone rigorous review and assessment, capable of protecting critical infrastructure functions.
