Solana Co-Founder Warns of Quantum Threats to Ethereum Layer 2 Networks

Solana Labs co-founder Anatoly Yakovenko has intensified the debate around quantum computing risks in the blockchain industry, issuing a stark warning about Ethereum Layer 2 (L2) ecosystems. On May 2, 2026, Yakovenko stated that “Ethereum L2s are not quantum safe,” highlighting growing concerns about the long-term security of current cryptographic systems.

His remarks come at a time when both Ethereum and Bitcoin face increasing scrutiny over their preparedness for quantum advancements. Yakovenko’s statement followed a developer update revealing Solana’s progress in integrating post-quantum cryptography, particularly Falcon-512 signature verification. This cryptographic scheme is designed to resist potential attacks from quantum computers, signaling Solana’s proactive approach toward future-proof security.

The core issue lies in Ethereum L2 networks’ reliance on the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA), especially the widely used secp256k1 curve. Once transactions are broadcast, associated public keys become visible on-chain. In a future where quantum computing becomes powerful enough, these keys could be vulnerable to decryption using algorithms like Shor’s, enabling attackers to reconstruct private keys and access funds.

Yakovenko also raised concerns about a “harvest now, decrypt later” scenario, where malicious actors collect encrypted blockchain data today with the intention of exploiting it once quantum capabilities mature. Beyond wallets, certain zero-knowledge proof systems used in rollups—such as Groth16 and Plonk—could also face risks, as they depend on elliptic-curve pairings that may not withstand quantum attacks. Popular networks like Arbitrum, Optimism, Base, and zkSync currently utilize such frameworks.

Meanwhile, Solana is gradually implementing Falcon-based protections, starting with new accounts while developing migration paths for existing wallets. Other blockchain projects are exploring different strategies. Ethereum aims to achieve quantum resistance later in the decade, while Cardano and Algorand are actively researching alternative solutions. Ripple has pledged to make XRP quantum-proof by 2028, while Bitcoin remains in the early stages of addressing these challenges.

As quantum computing evolves, the race to secure blockchain networks is becoming increasingly urgent, with projects adopting diverse approaches to safeguard digital assets in a post-quantum world.