Astra's n^1/400 approximation hardness could enable crypto assuming P≠NP

thomasahle · x · 2026-09-03

In a technical thread, thomasahle notes Astra also showed n^(1/400) approximation hardness from 3-SAT, which could be used for cryptography that is hard assuming P≠NP — still a cool outcome.

He adds that one "just" needs to show some problem is Exp-hard, which can be true even if P=NP, though it is likely harder. The best unconditional circuit lower bound remains Astra's n⁴/log n for the permanent.

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