Experts confirm that Bitcoin can be updated to withstand quantum computing through modifications to the protocol and encryption
. Although the immediate risk is considered low in December 2025, the debate about the network's readiness has intensified with new technical proposals.
Upgrade Possibilities and Challenges
Implementation of Soft Forks: Bitcoin can adopt post-quantum cryptography algorithms through soft fork updates. The BIP-360 proposal, discussed in late 2025, aims to introduce resistant address formats that allow users to gradually migrate funds.
Implementation Time: Developers like Jameson Lopp estimate that a complete and secure migration of the network could take 5 to 10 years due to the need for global coordination and consensus among millions of holders.
Performance Impact: Experts warn that quantum-resistant signatures are significantly larger and slower, which could reduce the network's efficiency by up to ten times.
Estimated Deadlines and Risks (December 2025)
Threat in 2026-2028: Some analysts, like Charles Edwards, suggest that the ability to break current encryption could emerge between 2026 and 2028. Without updates by then, the market could experience sharp price drops.
Conservative View: Other industry leaders, like Adam Back and Michael Saylor, argue that quantum technology is still in its early stages and should not seriously threaten Bitcoin for at least another decade.
Current Vulnerability: About 25% of the total Bitcoin supply (approximately 6.5 to 6.7 million BTC) is in older addresses whose public keys are exposed, making them potential targets for long-term quantum attacks.
Institutions like the SEC in the United States are already reviewing proposals to protect the digital asset market from these growing threats.
