MLDSA-87

1. Overview

MLDSA-87 (Module-Lattice Digital Signature Algorithm with 87-bit security) is a post-quantum cryptographic (PQC) signature scheme based on structured lattice cryptography. It is part of the NIST PQC Standardization Project (Finalist in the Digital Signature category) and is optimized for blockchain environments.

Key Features

• Quantum-Resistant: Secure against attacks from both classical and quantum computers (e.g., Shor’s algorithm).

• Efficiency: Balances security and performance with compact key sizes (~3KB public keys) and fast verification.

• On-Chain Compatibility: Designed for low gas costs and high throughput in smart contracts.

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2. Technical Details

2.1 Algorithm Structure

Parameter	Specification
Security Level	87-bit (Post-Quantum NIST Tier 3)
Base Problem	Module-Lattice Learning With Errors (MLWE)
Signature Size	~2.5 KB
Public Key Size	~3 KB
Private Key Size	~1.5 KB

2.2 Performance Metrics

Operation	Speed (QAN Testnet)
Verification	~10 ms

Benchmarked on QAN’s quantum-resistant VM with 4 vCPUs.

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3. Integration with QAN Blockchain

Advantages for QAN

• Gas Efficiency: 30% lower gas costs vs. traditional ECDSA.

• Future-Proof: Immune to Grover’s/Shor’s attacks.

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4. Comparison with Classical Algorithms

Algorithm	Quantum-Safe?	Key Size	Speed (Verification)
MLDSA-87	✅ Yes	~3 KB	⚡ 10 ms
ECDSA	❌ No	64 B	⚡ 5 ms
RSA-2048	❌ No	256 B	🐢 150 ms

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5. Use Cases in QAN Ecosystem

• Smart Contracts: Tamper-proof agreements.

• Government/Gaming: Where long-term security is critical.