Stellar has announced a pivotal upgrade, the Bell protocol update, set to transform its blockchain network to better support enterprise-level smart accounts, initiate groundwork for quantum-resistant signatures, and enhance ledger performance. The network has scheduled its testnet and mainnet votes for November 3, 2026, and November 23, 2026, at 5:00 PM UTC.
Two-Phase Update Scheduled for November
Following the release of the Stellar Core v30.0.0 stable version last week, a series of new stable releases for infrastructure components and software development kits are anticipated this week. Stellar is renowned for its open-source blockchain network that is particularly active in cross-border payments and asset transfers.
The Bell update incorporates the changes from Protocol 30. It includes a revamped ledger header format under CAP 88. Developers are advised to transition to updated tools, as older SDK versions might be incompatible with Protocol 30 ledgers.
Stellar announced its aim with the Bell update to prepare smart accounts for enterprise-scale use, initiate work on quantum-resistant signatures, and transition to a swifter ledger structure.
Protocol 30 Brings Technical Structural Changes
New SDK packages include updated XDR definitions and a new multiplexed contract address type, alongside corresponding W strkey support. These enhancements prioritize compatibility for developers working with contract-based account structures.
Soroban, Stellar’s smart contract platform, manages transactions through programmable account logic rather than using a standard wallet. In 2026, company wallets are expected to transition to quantum-resistant signatures via Soroban contract accounts. By the end of 2027, all Stellar accounts are targeted to adopt a quantum-resistant signing addition, maintaining their existing address and transaction history through a native protocol update.
Quantum Threat Divided into Two Risk Areas
Stellar’s Quantum Preparedness Plan, unveiled in June 2026, aims to equip the network with quantum-resistant cryptography. The plan addresses two key risk areas: network integrity and account security. The Stellar Consensus Protocol’s messages, currently verified by validators using Ed25519 signatures, risk being compromised by sufficiently powerful adversaries capable of mimicking validator signatures.
The second, more challenging risk is the threat of account compromise. The capability of the Shor algorithm to derive private keys from Ed25519 public keys makes all accounts on the Stellar network vulnerable, as every account address inherently contains this public key, including inactive accounts yet to confirm any transactions.
Stellar emphasized that the risk of account compromise is a central focus of its quantum preparedness plan, due to each account address directly containing an Ed25519 public key.
XLM Price Rises
Riding the wave of a general market recovery, XLM surged by 4.80% over the past 24 hours to reach $0.183. The quantum preparedness plan, particularly with enhancements at the account level, is expected to bolster long-term support for the Stellar ecosystem.
