StarkWare announced today, February 5, 2026, a significant investment in future-proofing its technologies against the looming threat of quantum computing, appointing leading theoretical computer scientist Professor Scott Aaronson to its Scientific Advisory Board. Recognizing quantum computing as “the biggest long-term threat crypto faces,” StarkWare is proactively upgrading infrastructure and prioritizing research to safeguard both Starknet and Bitcoin. Aaronson, the Schlumberger Chair of Computer Science at the University of Texas, brings critical expertise to this effort. “The quantum era is something we need to prepare for NOW — by upgrading infrastructure, investing in research, and thinking long-term,” said Eli Ben-Sasson, highlighting the urgency of addressing this potentially devastating vulnerability.
Scott Aaronson Joins StarkWare’s Scientific Advisory Board
Scott Aaronson has joined StarkWare’s Scientific Advisory Board, bringing significant expertise in quantum computing to the company’s long-term strategy. Eli Ben-Sasson, of Starknet.io, expressed excitement about welcoming Aaronson, noting his position as “one of the world’s leading minds” in the field. This appointment signals a proactive stance toward potential vulnerabilities as quantum computing technology advances, with StarkWare focusing on both Starknet and Bitcoin infrastructure. The company intends to address the coming challenges through research investment and strategic infrastructure upgrades, preparing for a future where current cryptographic methods may be compromised.
The move, announced on February 5, 2026, demonstrates a commitment to “quantum-readiness” – a preparedness strategy emphasizing immediate action rather than delayed response. According to StarkWare, this involves not only bolstering existing systems but also fostering a forward-thinking approach to cryptographic security.
Quantum Computing Poses Long-Term Threat to Cryptocurrency
The burgeoning field of quantum computing presents a significant, albeit distant, challenge to the foundations of cryptocurrency security, according to industry leaders. StarkWare publicly stated that “quantum computing is coming, and it’s the biggest long-term threat crypto faces,” prompting a strategic move to bolster defenses against future attacks. This proactive step aims to address vulnerabilities in both Starknet and Bitcoin infrastructure before they can be exploited. Ben-Sasson further emphasized that this preparation is crucial, stating, “we are committed to this task,” signaling a long-term strategy to safeguard digital assets against the evolving capabilities of quantum processors.
Quantum computing is coming, and it’s the biggest long-term threat crypto faces.
StarkWare