NEWS

Bitcoin's Future: Security, Users, and Quantum

January 14, 2026

The first-ever Edmonton BitDevs meetup brought together local enthusiasts and experts to discuss the future of Bitcoin in a way that’s accessible to everyone. The conversation ranged from technical improvements to the long-term safety of the network, all focused on one goal: making Bitcoin better for the next billion users.

Here are the key highlights from the discussion:

Making Bitcoin Development Less "Scary"

One of the main themes was how to make building on Bitcoin more accessible. Currently, Bitcoin’s code is complex because the "scary" parts—the rules that everyone must agree on for the network to function (consensus)—are mixed with "not-so-scary" parts like the user interface.

The Proposal: Developers are discussing "Bitcoin Core Core," a tiny, simplified version of the software that handles only the most vital functions.

The Goal: By separating these parts, more people can contribute to the user-friendly side of Bitcoin without the fear of accidentally "breaking" the entire network.

Future-Proofing Against Quantum Computers

While quantum computing is still a theoretical threat that is likely decades away, the community is already planning for it.

The Risk: If powerful quantum computers are ever built, they could potentially guess the "private keys" of very old Bitcoin addresses that don't use modern security.

The Solution: Most modern Bitcoin addresses are already resistant to this. However, the community is testing new "quantum-proof" digital signatures today to ensure Bitcoin remains secure for the next century.

The "Security Budget": Keeping Bitcoin Safe

As the reward for mining new Bitcoins halves every four years, the network must eventually rely on transaction fees to pay the miners who keep the system secure.

Consistent Fees: For Bitcoin to stay secure in the long run, there needs to be a steady flow of transactions 

Scaling with Efficiency: The group discussed how technologies like the Lightning Network allow people to buy coffee or send small amounts instantly and cheaply, while still contributing to the overall security of the main Bitcoin network.

Staying Safe in the Real World

The discussion also touched on "Operational Security" (OpSec)—how to keep your Bitcoin (and yourself) safe from physical and digital threats.

Privacy is Protection: Recent leaks from traditional exchanges have shown that having your home address or phone number linked to your Bitcoin holdings can make you a target for scammers or physical attacks.

Simple Steps: The experts emphasized that for the average person, using well-known, open-source software and keeping your information private are the best ways to stay safe.

Looking Ahead

The meetup concluded with a sense of optimism about the "Progressive Bitcoiner" movement, which aims to show that Bitcoin isn't just for one political group—it’s a tool for everyone that can help the environment and provide financial freedom.

If you're interested in the technical or social side of Bitcoin, the Edmonton community is growing. Keep an eye out for the next BitDevs Edmonton or the upcoming BTC++ conference in Toronto this July to get involved!

Meetup link:
https://www.meetup.com/bitcoin-warehouse-edmontons-bitcoin-headquarters/events/312464741/ 

List of links discussed:
https://bitdevs.ca/2026-01-12-edmonton-socratic-01