Vitalik Buterin Explains What True Ethereum Maturity Looks Like

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin recently shared a clear and simple idea of when the network can be called truly mature. 

He believes the blockchain network must reach a point where its main system is so strong and stable that its core developers could step back without putting Ethereum at risk. This vision focuses on long-term safety, stability, and steady growth rather than quick changes.

Vitalik Buterin’s Vision for Ethereum’s Long-Term Stability

In a recent X post, Buterin listed seven technical goals that Ethereum must complete before its base system can stop changing often. This stage is known as protocol ossification, meaning the base protocol would no longer need frequent structural changes. 

One of Buterin’s strongest points was the need for quantum resistance. This means Ethereum must protect itself from future computers that could break today’s cryptography or even breach inactive crypto wallets. The industry leader argued that waiting until the last moment would be risky.

Buterin said Ethereum should reach a stage where it can honestly claim that its security will remain safe on its own for at least 100 years. He sees this as a responsibility of the protocol, not a choice left to individual users.

Interest in quantum-safe technology is already growing within the Ethereum community. In March 2025, the Ethereum Foundation supported ZKNox, a startup working on open-source tools to improve Ethereum’s security and performance. 

A major focus of this work is post-quantum cryptography, showing that the ecosystem is preparing early for future risks.

Buterin Calls for Faster and Long-Lasting Ethereum

In the post, Buterin stressed the need for Ethereum to handle very high activity. He said the network must be able to process thousands of transactions every second, as seen in other scalable networks. 

Advanced technologies like ZK-EVM validation and PeerDAS are meant to help Ethereum scale while staying secure and decentralized. This level of speed would allow Ethereum to support large financial systems and everyday applications worldwide.

Another key goal is long-term data management. Tools like statelessness and state expiry help limit data growth, keeping Ethereum nodes affordable and easy to run over time.

The Safer Accounts and a More Stable Ethereum

Buterin also called for a more flexible account system to replace the current ECDSA model. This would make accounts safer and easier to use.

He also said Ethereum’s proof-of-stake system must be improved to keep the network decentralized and prevent too much control by a few players.

In addition, he stressed the need for a strong gas system to protect Ethereum from denial-of-service attacks. He also emphasized the need for block production that cannot be easily censored, helping Ethereum remain open and neutral.

Rather than making many big changes at once, Buterin suggested a careful plan. When possible, Ethereum should complete one major goal each year. Future updates should focus more on small adjustments instead of frequent hard forks.