Ripple is preparing a post-quantum security solution in advance for the XRP Ledger. The company states that this roadmap will be implemented in phases, beginning with emergency protections, followed by testing new algorithms, and running both old and new cryptographic schemes in parallel on the mainnet and testnet, with the ultimate goal of upgrading the XRPL mainnet by 2028.
Advance the upgrade in four stages
Ripple has divided this plan into four steps. The first step is to establish a quantum risk contingency plan. If existing encryption methods fail earlier than expected, users can migrate their accounts to a more secure solution without exposing their private keys.
The second step is to test quantum-resistant algorithms. The third step, to be carried out in the second half of 2026, will involve Ripple running quantum-resistant solutions alongside existing encryption methods on Devnet and Testnet, allowing developers to test compatibility and migration processes in advance.
Step four leads to the mainnet. Ripple plans to submit a code amendment proposal for the XRPL in 2028 to transition the entire network to a quantum-resistant security system.
Existing features reduce the difficulty of migration.
The XRPL currently supports two features that are considered beneficial for future upgrades. First, the key rotation feature allows users to change their keys without creating a new account. Second, the seed-based key generation mechanism can assist users in generating new key material during future security upgrades.
Ripple also noted that these features themselves do not constitute a quantum-resistant solution, but they provide a foundational basis for future migration, reducing the complexity of rebuilding the account system.
Continue testing in 2026, target mainnet in 2028.
This initiative is led by Ayo Akinyele, Senior Engineering Director at Ripple, with participation from the Applied Cryptography team. Ripple’s core assessment is that quantum computing may eventually break existing cryptographic systems, including elliptic curve cryptography, and therefore preparation must be completed before this risk materializes.
According to the current schedule, Ripple’s next focus remains on continuous testing through 2026, with the full protocol migration on the mainnet targeted for 2028.