QRL 2.0
The Future of Quantum-Resistant Smart Contracts
What is QRL 2.0?
QRL 2.0 (also known as QRL Zond) is QRL's next-generation quantum-resistant blockchain - an EVM-compatible Layer-1 engineered for the post-quantum era. It represents the evolution of QRL from Proof-of-Work to Proof-of-Stake, bringing smart contract capabilities to the world's first quantum-resistant blockchain.
Core Features
- Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatible: Port Ethereum contracts with minimal changes
- Proof-of-Stake consensus: Energy-efficient consensus replacing the current PoW model
- Smart contracts via Hyperion: A quantum-resistant fork of Solidity
- NIST-approved cryptography: ML-DSA-87 (Dilithium) signature scheme
- Built for developers: Familiar Web3 tooling, seamless migration path
Why QRL 2.0 Matters
The Quantum Threat is Accelerating
The threat of quantum computers breaking encryption has shifted from "decades away" to a near-term concern. The quantum timeline has accelerated dramatically, with industry experts now projecting cryptographically relevant quantum computers (CRQCs) could emerge as early as 2027-2033. Major developments include:
- NIST finalized the first post-quantum cryptography standards in August 2024
- The EU's Digital Operational Resilience Act, effective January 2025, mandates preparation for cryptographic threats
- US federal agencies are required by law to prepare for quantum migration by 2035
- Projections for breaking ECC have tightened to 2027-2033 based on major quantum firm roadmaps and expert analysis
- Algorithmic breakthroughs have reduced the estimated qubits needed to break ECC-256 from 300 million to approximately 1 million - a 90%+ reduction
- QLDPC-based architectures (Iceberg Quantum "Pinnacle Architecture," February 2026) reduce the physical qubit requirement for RSA-2048 by 10x, to under 100,000 - fundamentally resetting the hardware threshold
- IonQ achieved 99.99% two-qubit gate fidelity (October 2025), a world record that reduces physical-to-logical qubit ratios to as low as 13:1
- Infleqtion executed Shor's algorithm on logical qubits for the first time (September 2025), with 1,600 physical qubits and a roadmap to 1,000 logical qubits by 2030
- Google's Willow processor (December 2024) demonstrated below-threshold quantum error correction with its 105-qubit processor, proving the fundamental physics of fault-tolerant quantum computing
- Microsoft's Majorana 1 chip (February 2025) and the first Majorana qubit readout (QuTech, February 2026) validate the topological approach to quantum computing
- "Harvest now, decrypt later" attacks are already underway - adversaries are collecting encrypted data today to decrypt once quantum computers become available
- Industry consensus has shifted: Nature (February 2026) reported a "vibe shift" among quantum researchers from "decades away" to "within a decade" for useful quantum computers
Legacy blockchains face a monumental task of migrating - complex technical hurdles, potential performance compromises, and the challenge of user consensus. QRL 2.0 is built quantum-ready from day one.
A Safe Haven for the Ethereum Ecosystem
The EVM ecosystem represents over $300 billion in value, with hundreds of billions more across EVM-compatible chains like Polygon, Arbitrum, Optimism, BNB Chain, and Avalanche. All are protected by quantum-vulnerable ECDSA signatures. QRL 2.0 creates unique opportunities:
- ERC-20 tokens can be replicated on quantum-resistant infrastructure (as QRC-20)
- DeFi protocols can deploy before quantum threats materialize
- NFTs and digital assets secured against future attacks
- Institutional adoption with confidence in long-term security
Technical Architecture
Two-Layer Design
QRL 2.0's architecture mirrors Ethereum's post-Merge design:
Execution Layer (go-zond/gzond)
- Monitors newly broadcasted transactions
- Processes them through the Zond Virtual Machine (ZVM)
- Maintains the current state and database
Consensus Layer (qrysm)
- Executes the Proof-of-Stake consensus algorithm
- Coordinates validators across the network
- Ensures reliability and integrity of network operations
Post-Quantum Cryptography
QRL 2.0 implements NIST-approved quantum-resistant signature schemes:
ML-DSA-87 (Dilithium) - Primary
- Lattice-based signatures (NIST FIPS 204)
- Unlimited signatures per address
- Smaller signature sizes (lower transaction costs)
- Fast verification
- Required for staking validators
- Full NIST compliance at launch
SLH-DSA (SPHINCS+) - Post-Mainnet
- Hash-based signatures (NIST FIPS 205)
- Will be integrated after mainnet launch
- Conservative security assumptions
- Crypto-agile address model allows seamless integration
XMSS (Stateful) - Legacy Support
- Hash-based signatures with robust security guarantees
- Uses one-time keys (requires OTS index tracking)
- Limited number of signatures per wallet
Cryptographic Agility
- Can adopt new NIST-approved algorithms as standards evolve
- Users choose the algorithm that fits their needs
- If one algorithm is compromised, others remain secure
- Built-in future-proofing from day one
- No emergency hard fork needed when new algorithms emerge
This multi-algorithm approach provides defense in depth - not relying on a single cryptographic assumption.
Address Format
QRL 2.0 uses a distinctive "Q" prefix with a new, shorter address format:
- Significantly shorter than the original QRL format (which was 79 characters)
- Uses 24 bytes internally (vs Ethereum's 20 bytes) to eliminate ambiguity
- Includes a 3-byte descriptor to differentiate between cryptographic schemes
- Network uses QRL/Planck/Shor denominations (replacing ETH nomenclature)
EVM Compatibility
Key breakthrough: Developers can port Ethereum smart contracts to QRL 2.0 with minimal modifications. The Hyperion compiler (a Solidity fork) supports lattice-based primitives, enabling smart contracts to natively verify quantum-secure signatures.
What this means for developers:
- Write Solidity code as you would on Ethereum
- Use familiar tools: web3.js, Hardhat, Remix-style IDEs (Vortex)
- Deploy with minimal changes - often just the first line of the contract
- Preserve existing toolchains while gaining quantum security
Network Parameters
QRL 2.0 prioritizes security over speed, with some differences from Ethereum:
| Parameter | Zond | Ethereum |
|---|---|---|
| Block time | 60 seconds | 12 seconds |
| Epoch size | 128 slots (~128 minutes) | 32 slots (~6.4 minutes) |
| Finalization time | ~4-6 hours | ~16 minutes |
| Block size | Larger (higher bandwidth/disk requirements) | Standard |
These parameters reflect the computational overhead of post-quantum cryptography while maintaining network security.
Development Timeline
Completed
- • World's first full-featured quantum-resistant blockchain
- • XMSS signatures from genesis block
- • Zond Virtual Machine (ZVM) testing
- • Hyperion Solidity fork introduced
- • Expanded testing with community developers
- • Web3 API compatibility confirmed
- • Most stable testnet to date
- • Full EVM compatibility demonstrated
- • New "Q" prefix address format rolled out
- • BUIDL Testnet Preview unveiled
- • Strong developer interest demonstrated
- • Shorter, more user-friendly Q-prefix addresses
- • ML-DSA-87 integration completed across the stack (go-qrllib, go-zond, qrysm, deposit contracts)
- • QRL-specific address format with 3-byte cryptographic descriptors
In Progress
- • Code freeze completed for 6 repositories in preparation for the audit process (Feb 13, 2026)
- • Qrysm: Slashing penalty and whistleblower reward parameters finalized. Sync committee member parameters under adjustment. Extensive API documentation completed for over 25 beacon chain endpoints (genesis, states, validators, blocks, rewards, sync committees, randao)
- • Go-Zond RPC API: Documentation completed for 16+ RPC methods (getProof, createAccessList, feeHistory, filters, logs, and more). Go version requirements updated to 1.24+. Enhanced security, zeroization, and error handling
- • Beacon Chain / Consensus Layer Explorer: Indexer completed for both explorers. CI/CD pipeline deployed. Frontend bug fixes in progress. API development ongoing for indexed data access
- • Execution Layer Explorer: UI/UX design completed. Verified contracts page with filter data implemented. API development ongoing
- • Key libraries achieving 100% code coverage: go-qrllib, qrypto.js, wallet.js (Jan 23, 2026)
- • qrl-genesis-generator: Added "slots per epoch" parameter
- • web3.js: Updated transaction specs, migrated tests, and fixed ports
- • wallet.js: Upgraded to Node.js 20+ and latest dependencies. Refined build process and added bundle smoke tests. Implemented final V3 wallet
- • qrypto.js: Updated dilithium5 and mldsa87 builds for dual ESM/CJS. Set minimum Node.js version to 20.19.0
- • Fixed: Blockchain recovery after extended stalls (tested with 24+ hour stall scenarios)
- • Staking deposit transactions updated to include withdrawal address during deposit
- • Vortex IDE improvements
- • Zond Web3 Wallet (Chrome extension) - production ready with Argon2id encryption, multi-account support, QRC20 token management, UI/UX revamp in progress
- • Web3 Wallet dApp Example: 30+ zond_ and wallet_ JSON-RPC methods implemented, full UI/UX overhaul with error handling and disabled states for unconnected functions
- • Block explorer enhancements with advanced filtering, analytics charts, and NFT metadata support
Coming Soon
- • Code freeze completed for 6 repositories (Feb 13, 2026): qrl-genesis-generator, qrl-tx-spammer, web3.js, wallet.js, go-qrllib, qrypto.js
- • Audit-ready release - the foundation for mainnet
- • Incorporates latest cryptography updates (ML-DSA-87 across the full stack)
- • Enhanced stability and features
- • Network parameter optimization finalized
- • This release represents a strategic shift to meet the urgency of the quantum threat with definitive timelines
- • Comprehensive security audit and review
- • Focus on cryptography and code quality
- • Leading auditors to be engaged (as done with original QRL)
- • Migration tools for current QRL holders
- • Full ecosystem support
- • SLH-DSA integration planned for post-mainnet
For Current QRL Holders
Your current QRL is quantum-safe and will remain so. The migration from current QRL mainnet to QRL 2.0 is being designed as an automated, trustless process:
Snapshot
At a predetermined block height, a final snapshot of the PoW chain captures all balances
Migration Contract
A smart contract on QRL 2.0 mainnet contains all balance data from the snapshot
User-Initiated Claim
Using a simple UI, provide your new QRL 2.0 address and sign with your existing XMSS address
Automated Transfer
The contract verifies your signature and transfers your full balance
This is a planned, orderly upgrade - not an emergency migration. Details will be finalized as mainnet approaches.
Use Cases
DeFi Protocols
Build lending platforms, DEXs, yield farming, and stablecoins secured against quantum threats from day one.
NFT Platforms
Mint and trade digital assets with long-term security for provenance and ownership.
Decentralized Identity
Self-sovereign identity solutions protected against quantum decryption of personal data.
Trustless Governance
Tamper-proof voting systems and DAO infrastructure with quantum-resistant integrity.
Enterprise Applications
Supply chain tracking, document authentication, and business logic secured for the quantum era.
For Developers
Getting Started Today
Testnet Access
- • Public testnet live at test-zond.theqrl.org
- • Test tokens available from community members (faucet coming)
- • Comprehensive documentation available
Development Tools
- • Zond Web3 Wallet: Chrome extension (similar to MetaMask)
- • Vortex IDE: Fork of Remix for QRL 2.0 development
- • Hyperion Compiler: Solidity-compatible with PQ extensions
- • Web3.js libraries work with minimal changes
Migration from Ethereum
For most contracts, the only required change is the pragma line:
- • Port Ethereum contracts with minimal code changes
- • Migration guides and tutorials available
- • Community support channels
Why Build on QRL 2.0 Now?
First-Mover Advantage
- Be early to the quantum-resistant ecosystem
- Establish presence before mass migration from vulnerable chains
- Direct support from the development team during testnet phase
Quantum-Secure from Genesis
- Your dApps and users' assets are protected from day one
- No scrambling to migrate when quantum threats materialize
- Unlike other chains racing against deadlines, QRL controls its timeline
Development Resources
Community Projects
The QRL 2.0 ecosystem is growing with community-built tools:
QRL 2.0 Token Generator
by Volt Development
Create quantum-resistant tokens via web interface
Zond Web Wallet
by @moscowchill
User-friendly web interface for sending/receiving assets and token creation
Zond Scan
by @moscowchill
Block explorer for tracking transactions, blocks, validators, and smart contract analysis
Note: Community projects are under active development and may experience instability.
The QRL 2.0 Ecosystem
Infrastructure
Wallets
- • Desktop, mobile, and web wallets
- • Hardware wallet support planned
- • Multi-signature capabilities
Block Explorer
- • Full transaction history
- • Contract verification
- • Network statistics
Developer Tools
- • Comprehensive APIs
- • Testing frameworks
- • Documentation
- • Code examples
Community
Discord & Telegram
- • Active developer channels
- • Technical support
- • Community discussions
GitHub
- • Open-source code
- • Issue tracking
- • Contribution guidelines
Developer Grants
- • Funding for ecosystem projects
- • Technical support
- • Marketing assistance
Current Development Status (February 2026)
Preparing for Launch
QRL 2.0 is in the final stages of development, with code freeze completed for 6 core repositories (February 13, 2026) in preparation for the audit process. Testnet V2 represents a critical milestone that includes a comprehensive security audit and review, with particular focus on cryptography and code quality.
What's Happening Now:
- Code Freeze & Audit Prep: Six repositories frozen as of February 13, 2026: qrl-genesis-generator, qrl-tx-spammer, web3.js, wallet.js, go-qrllib, qrypto.js
- Security Upgrades: The team has fully integrated ML-DSA-87 (Dilithium) across the entire platform including go-qrllib, go-zond, qrysm, and deposit contracts
- Wallet Improvements: Chrome extension wallet with Argon2id encryption, multi-account support, QRC20 token management, and 30+ JSON-RPC methods implemented
- Network Stability: Fixed blockchain recovery after extended stalls, tested with 24+ hour scenarios
- Block Explorers: Both execution and consensus layer explorers: indexers completed, CI/CD deployed, UI/UX finalized
- 100% Code Coverage: Key libraries go-qrllib, qrypto.js, and wallet.js achieved full code coverage (January 23, 2026)
The Bottom Line: The development team is doing careful, methodical work to ensure QRL 2.0 launches as a secure, reliable, and user-friendly platform. Code freeze and audit preparation signal that the finish line is in sight.
Stay Updated
Follow the latest progress through QRL Weekly Updates - short, accessible reports published every week showing what the team has accomplished.
Roadmap
Strategic Timeline Adjustments
Given the accelerating quantum timeline and systemic risk facing the EVM ecosystem, QRL has adjusted its roadmap to prioritize speed and reliability. Two key strategic shifts:
- 1Definitive Timelines: The urgency of the quantum threat demands precision - Q1 2026 Testnet V2 is locked in for auditors and the community to plan accordingly
- 2Streamlined Algorithm Implementation: Prioritizing ML-DSA (Dilithium) integration for full NIST compliance at launch, with SLH-DSA rescheduled to post-mainnet. The crypto-agile address model allows seamless integration of additional signature algorithms after network launch.
Q1 2026: Testnet V2 & Audit
- Code freeze completed for 6 repositories (February 13, 2026); remaining repositories in progress
- Launch audit-ready Testnet V2
- Final network parameter adjustments
- Comprehensive security audit
- Focus on cryptography and code quality
2026: Mainnet Launch
- QRL 2.0 mainnet release (post-audit completion)
- Migration tools for current QRL holders
- Developer onboarding programs
- Supplementary tooling and Vortex IDE support
Post-Mainnet: Continued Enhancement
- SLH-DSA (SPHINCS+) integration
- Additional post-quantum algorithm support
- Layer 2 integrations
- Cross-chain bridges
2027-2029: Growth & Ecosystem Expansion
- Project migrations from Ethereum and other EVM chains
- Institutional partnerships and enterprise adoption
- Thriving quantum-resistant DeFi ecosystem
- Expansion of quantum-safe dApp infrastructure
2030+: Quantum Era
- Established quantum-resistant smart contract platform
- Safe haven for assets migrating from vulnerable chains
- Leadership in post-quantum blockchain infrastructure
Join the Quantum-Resistant Future
The quantum threat to blockchain is real and accelerating. With QRL 2.0, we're not just anticipating the challenge - we're building the solution.
The future is quantum-resistant. The future is QRL 2.0.