LayerZero introduced Akita on Sept. 9, a new polynomial commitment system designed to protect zero-knowledge proofs against potential attacks from quantum computers.
The technology aims to provide quantum-resistant security while producing smaller proofs than existing post-quantum alternatives. That could make zero-knowledge applications more efficient as developers prepare for advances in computing power.
Introducing Akita, the first production-ready, lattice-based polynomial commitment scheme for post-quantum security.
Akita Targets Faster, Smaller Proofs
LayerZero says Akita can produce proofs of about 65 to 80 kilobytes, compared with more than 200 kilobytes for many hash-based alternatives. Smaller proofs could reduce the amount of data that networks need to process and store.
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Akita also cuts Jolt‘s proving time by two to three times and reduces memory use by about half, according to LayerZero. Jolt, developed with a16z Crypto, is used by the Zero blockchain, where Akita’s integration could add protection against future quantum attacks.
Akita uses lattice-based cryptography, an approach included in US standards for defending against quantum computers. The technology could give developers another option for upgrading zero-knowledge systems before current cryptographic methods become vulnerable.
Quantum Readiness Gains Attention
Blockchain developers are increasingly preparing for quantum computers, which could eventually undermine some of the cryptography used to secure digital assets.
Ethereum developers are targeting December 2029 for quantum-resistant protections across the networks execution, consensus and data layers. Bitcoin developers face similar concerns, although Samson Mow has urged them to avoid rushed changes to the protocol.
A few months ago I cautioned against hastily moving Bitcoin to PQ signatures, lest we introduce a vulnerability to classical attacks. Now we have to worry about AI finding them too.
Galaxy Digital has committed up to $5 million to research focused on preparing Bitcoin for quantum threats. Akita joins those efforts as blockchain developers look to strengthen their security before quantum computers become powerful enough to pose a practical risk.
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