The Ledger Podcast Future of Blockchain: Cryptography Facing Quantum and AI
Nov 11, 2025
Charles Guillemet, CTO at Ledger, Matthew Green, a cryptographer from Johns Hopkins, and Ian Miers, co-inventor of Zcash, delve into the urgent challenges posed by quantum computing to blockchain technology. They discuss the need for proactive solutions, the trade-offs of transitioning to quantum-resistant signatures, and the evolving privacy landscape in the age of AI. The trio highlights practical security measures for users while exploring how AI complicates privacy further. A dynamic conversation that balances technical insight with real-world implications!
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Quantum Is A Future But Manageable Threat
- Quantum threatens specific cryptographic primitives but is not an immediate everyday risk.
- Charles Guillemet says we already have quantum-resistant algorithms and the main challenge is social consensus to deploy them.
Prepare Early For A Store-And-Adversary
- Prepare now because large sums sit secured by breakable algorithms once quantum hardware exists.
- Matthew Green advises locking down systems and planning migrations even if the breakthrough feels distant.
Migration Costs Could Stall Upgrades
- Transitioning to post-quantum signatures has heavy engineering and political costs.
- Ian Miers warns larger keys and signatures could make blockchain upgrades rocky and contested.