To achieve agility, blockchains can adopt several strategies:
Algorithm Negotiation in Protocols
Similar to how TLS allows parties to agree on supported algorithms, blockchain protocols could negotiate cryptographic methods for signatures or hashing.
Upgradeable Smart Contracts
In smart contract platforms, contracts could be designed with “pluggable” cryptographic modules, making future upgrades possible without redeployment.
Hybrid Cryptography
Blockchains can adopt dual-signature schemes where both classical (e.g., ECC) and post-quantum signatures are required, ensuring forward security during transitions.
Governance-Driven Updates
Agility requires strong governance mechanisms, whether on-chain voting or formal upgrade paths, so that algorithm changes are coordinated and trusted.