Project Eleven and Binius developer Jim Posen published a post-quantum ZK proof design for wallet recovery using BIP-32 derivation, with 243ms proof generation.
Tech & Launches ·
Project Eleven and Binius developer Jim Posen have published a design for a zero-knowledge proof system aimed at addressing wallet recovery in a post-quantum era. The system leverages BIP-32 derivation and generates proofs in 243 milliseconds, according to Project Eleven's writeup.
The approach uses zero-knowledge proofs to let users demonstrate ownership of cryptocurrency without exposing sensitive key material, which becomes critical if quantum computing advances render current cryptographic protections vulnerable. By building the proof mechanism on top of BIP-32's hierarchical key derivation structure—specifically above a hardened step—the design aims to separate wallet recovery credentials from the underlying keys themselves. This design touches on a broader crypto privacy and wallet security landscape where cryptographic techniques are increasingly applied to protect user assets and recovery mechanisms.
What remains unclear is the practical readiness of the system, its integration pathway with existing Bitcoin or other blockchain infrastructure, and whether the 243 ms generation time scales under real-world load conditions across different hardware configurations. The broader question of how quantum threats will reshape Bitcoin security remains an open area of active research.