Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has outlined a clear technical threshold for what he considers network maturity, arguing its foundational protocol must achieve a state of long-term readiness where core developers could theoretically step away.
In an X post on Jan. 12, Buterin outlined seven specific technical requirements that would allow the blockchain to ossify, with pre-emptive quantum-resistance cited as a non-negotiable priority for century-long security.
“We should resist the trap of saying ‘let’s delay quantum-resistance until the last possible moment in the name of eking out more efficiencies for a while longer.’ Individual users have that right, but the protocol should not. Being able to say ‘Ethereum’s protocol, as it stands today, is cryptographically safe for a hundred years’ is something we should strive to get to as soon as possible, and insist on as a point of pride,” Buterin wrote in the post.
Buterin’s emphasis on quantum resistance echoes growing interest in post-quantum security across the Ethereum ecosystem. In March 2025, the Ethereum Foundation backed ZKNox, a startup aiming to develop open-source code that improves Ethereum security and efficiency, with a special focus on post-quantum cryptography.
Beyond quantum resistance, Buterin’s post listed six other pillars required for protocol ossification. These include an architecture capable of scaling to thousands of transactions per second using ZK-EVM validation and PeerDAS, and a state management system durable for decades via statelessness and state expiry.
The Ethereum co-founder also called for a fully abstracted account model moving beyond ECDSA, a denial-of-service-resistant gas schedule, a refined proof-of-stake economic model for long-term decentralization, and a censorship-resistant block-building mechanism.
Buterin emphasized a staged approach, completing at least one requirement per year where feasible, with future changes ideally reflected through parameter adjustments rather than frequent hard forks.
© 2026 The Block. All Rights Reserved. This article is provided for informational purposes only. It is not offered or intended to be used as legal, tax, investment, financial, or other advice.
Trade Crypto On Coinhub Exchange
Trade Crypto On Coinhub Exchange
Stay ahead of the market by turning news insights into trading opportunities. With Coinhub Exchange, you can seamlessly buy, sell, and manage your digital assets, all in one secure platform. Take advantage of real-time market insights, deep liquidity, and fast execution for your favorite cryptocurrencies. Don’t just read about it — trade crypto now!
Disclaimer
The content of this article shown by Coinhub News, powered by The Block, is for informational purposes only and should not be construed as financial, legal, tax, or investment advice. Coinhub News and its affiliates are not a licensed financial advisor, legal advisor, broker, or tax advisor, and ... should not be considered as professional advice or a recommendation to engage in any specific investment, legal decision, or financial transaction. Cryptocurrency markets are highly speculative and volatile. Readers should perform their own independent research and consult with a qualified professional before making any financial or legal decisions. The opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily represent the views or opinions of the Company of its affiliates. Additionally, the Company does not make any representations or warranties regarding the accuracy, timeliness, reliability, or completeness of any information in this article. By accessing this content, you acknowledge that any reliance on the information contained in this article is solely at your own risk. The Company is not responsible for any financial losses, legal disputes, or other damages that may arise from reliance on this content or from any investment or legal decisions based on the information provided. Investing in cryptocurrencies involves substantial risks, including the risk of losing your entire investment, and you should carefully consider whether it is appropriate for your circumstances.
Read more
