New quantum computing model reduces hardware needed to attack Bitcoin by 17x

A new quantum computing model developed by quantum computing firm Alice & Bob significantly reduces the hardware required for a potential attack on Bitcoin‘s cryptographic keys, bringing such a theoretical threat closer to reality.

The research, reported by CoinDesk, indicates the new model slashes the number of physical qubits needed to break Bitcoin‘s Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA) by a factor of 17. This advancement reduces a major practical barrier, making the timeline for a potential quantum attack on the network more tangible.

While a large-scale, fault-tolerant quantum computer capable of executing such an attack does not yet exist, the model increases pressure on the cryptocurrency ecosystem to adopt quantum-resistant cryptography. The development highlights a growing need for proactive security upgrades before such powerful quantum hardware becomes operational.

The Bitcoin community has long been aware of the quantum threat, and discussions around post-quantum cryptographic solutions are ongoing within developer circles. This new research underscores that the theoretical risk is evolving alongside advancements in quantum computing research.