Migrating Bitcoin to post-quantum security standards could take between five and ten years due to the network’s decentralised structure, according to crypto executive Jameson Lopp.
Lopp said Bitcoin differs fundamentally from centralised software systems because protocol changes require broad consensus rather than executive decisions.
He explained that upgrading cryptographic standards would involve not only technical changes but also a complex and coordinated migration of user funds.
Quantum computers won't break Bitcoin in the near future. We'll keep observing their evolution. Yet, making thoughtful changes to the protocol and an unprecedented migration of funds could easily take 5 to 10 years. We should hope for the best, but prepare for the worst.
Lopp said.
Lopp agreed with Blockstream chief executive Adam Back that quantum computing does not pose an immediate threat to Bitcoin’s security.
He noted that Bitcoin’s decentralised governance model makes rapid upgrades far more challenging than in traditional technology companies.
The discussion has reignited debate within the Bitcoin community over how urgently quantum-resistant solutions should be pursued.
Bitcoin maximalists have urged caution, warning that premature protocol changes could undermine network stability and trust.
Venture capital investors, by contrast, argue that delaying preparation could expose Bitcoin to future systemic risk.
Bitcoin supporter Pierre Rochard said funding quantum-resistance measures would be feasible through non-profits and private capital.
Quantum-resistance solutions are affordable enough to be financed by non-profits and VCs.
Rochard said.
Rochard added that a large-scale quantum attack would be so costly that governments would likely need to subsidise it.
Samson Mow, chief executive of Bitcoin-focused firm JAN3, dismissed claims that quantum computers are close to breaking Bitcoin’s cryptography.
In reality, quantum computers can’t factor the number 21 — not 21 million — 21, without heavy customization to the algorithm.
Mow said on quantum computers.
Despite reassurances from developers, some investors believe market sentiment is being affected by fears around quantum computing.
Digital asset fund founder Charles Edwards warned that Bitcoin’s price could fall sharply if the protocol is not quantum-ready by 2028.
Edwards suggested Bitcoin could drop below $50,000 if adequate safeguards are not implemented in time.
He called on node operators to adopt Bitcoin Improvement Proposal 360, which introduces a quantum-resistant signature scheme.
Supporters of the proposal argue it would future-proof Bitcoin against advances in computing power.
Critics maintain that enforcing major upgrades without overwhelming consensus could fracture the network.
At the time of reporting, Bitcoin price was $88,866.70.