Microsoft Accelerates In Quantum With An Unprecedented Processor

On February 19, 2025, Microsoft unveiled a major breakthrough in quantum computing with the launch of its first quantum processor, dubbed Majorana 1. This new chip, based on “topological superconductors”, could enable the construction of quantum computers capable of solving complex industrial problems in a few years, rather than decades. The result of nearly 20 years of research, this innovation could transform not only computing technology but also the crypto world.

Microsoft launches a quantum chip that threatens crypto security?

The Majorana 1 chip is based on the Majorana fermion, a subatomic particle theorized in the 1930s. This particle has unique properties that make qubits less prone to errors. Unlike classical bits, qubits can simultaneously represent states 0 and 1, allowing for exponentially faster calculations.

Microsoft claims to have already integrated eight qubits on this chip, with an ambition to scale up to one million qubits on a single chip the size of a hand. Quantum computers promise to revolutionize areas such as medicine and chemistry by solving complex problems much faster than current computers.

However, this power also poses challenges, particularly regarding crypto security. Advanced enough quantum computers could potentially break current crypto algorithms, thus threatening the security of Satoshi Nakamoto’s bitcoin wallet and many users.

Solutions implemented

To prepare for these challenges, Microsoft is developing crypto strategies resistant to quantum attacks, such as the Quantum Safe program. This initiative aims to unify and accelerate all secure quantum initiatives within the company, recognizing the potential impact of quantum computing on current crypto methods.

Solana, for its part, has implemented the Winternitz Vault, an advanced solution based on hashes to generate new keys with each crypto transaction. This protects against potential attacks from quantum computers, thereby enhancing the security of its network for users.

Thus, the Majorana 1 marks a decisive step toward practical quantum computers. While cryptos will need to adapt to this new technological horizon, they could also take advantage of it to bolster their resilience and effectiveness in the future.