Quantum computer needs 'sun-level energy' to attack Bitcoin, firm says

A quantum computer would require an amount of energy comparable to the sun's output to successfully attack and take over the Bitcoin network, according to recent research from quantum security firm BTQ Technologies. CoinDesk reports that the research estimates a 51% attack on the BTC network would necessitate 10^23 qubits and 10^25 watts of power, an output similar to that of the sun. Compared to the entire Bitcoin network's power consumption of 15 gigawatts, such an attack is currently beyond humanity's technological capabilities, the firm explained. However, the research acknowledged that quantum computers could pose a long-term threat to the security of BTC wallets. It noted that older addresses with exposed public keys are at risk of having their private keys leaked, a point also raised by a Google research team in a recent paper. Before such a machine could be built, significant engineering challenges in areas like laser control and atom maintenance technology would need to be overcome. CoinDesk added that Bitcoin developers are already preparing upgrades, including the introduction of quantum-resistant signature methods and minimizing key exposure. Experts reportedly believe the network's security enhancements will be completed before quantum computers become a practical threat.