Ethereum aims to fully integrate ZK proofs across its architecture, starting with a native Layer 1 zkEVM by the end of 2025.
The foundation proposes validator-proof verification, raising gas limits, and enabling native zkRollups through an EXECUTE precompile once ZK clients dominate.
Real-time ZK proving must meet strict standards: ≤10s latency, 128-bit security, ≤300KiB proof size, $100K hardware cap, and ≤10kW power usage.
The Ethereum Foundation has outlined a bold plan to integrate zero-knowledge (ZK) proofs across the entire Ethereum stack, starting with a native L1 zkEVM rollout by the end of 2025.
ZK Proofs Expand Beyond Scaling Use Cases
According to a series of updates shared by @eth_everstake on X, the Ethereum Foundation is transitioning ZK proofs from being a scaling solution to becoming a foundational layer of the Ethereum protocol. The integration plan spans consensus, privacy, and execution, aiming to make Ethereum the leading platform for ZK applications, including zkRollups and privacy-preserving systems.
The phased rollout starts with an optional validator model. Instead of executing payloads, validators may choose to verify multiple execution proofs from trusted zkVM clients. This process supports client diversity, a key defense strategy already used in Ethereum. The initial requirement is a protocol change in the upcoming Glamsterdam hard fork, introducing pipelining to give provers additional time.
As more validators adopt ZK clients and their reliability is proven in real-world scenarios, Ethereum plans to switch fully to proof-based execution. Once a supermajority verifies proofs, the network can raise the gas limit and enable native zkRollups through the EXECUTE precompile.
Defining Real-Time ZK Proving Standards
To support this zkEVM rollout, the Foundation has defined strict technical criteria for real-time proving. Proofs must be verifiable in under 10 seconds and achieve at least 100-bit security at launch, eventually increasing to 128-bit security. Additionally, the proof size must not exceed 300KiB, and no trusted setup methods should be used.
Home proving, similar to solo staking, is a key part of this initiative. The Ethereum Foundation aims to keep decentralization and censorship resistance strong by ensuring that proof-of-work is feasible with up to $100K of on-premises hardware operating at 10 kW or less. These conditions make it practical for individual participants to run provers from residential setups.
The tweet from @eth_everstake affirms that Ethereum's future direction is tightly linked to ZK, viewing it not just as a feature but as a structural shift in protocol design.
Ethereum’s Path Toward zkEVM Deployment
With many zkVMs already proving Ethereum blocks and frequent performance updates across the ecosystem, Ethereum is positioning itself to take the lead in the race to L1 zkEVM deployment. The Foundation expects gradual validator adoption supported by formal verification, audits, and specification writing.
During this transition, the network will maintain its decentralization goals. Home servers are seen as a protective layer against potential centralization and censorship risks. Ethereum’s goal is to meet all technical and hardware constraints without compromising on liveness, openness, or protocol integrity.
As Ethereum moves toward Devconnect Argentina, all eyes will be on zkVM teams advancing their infrastructure to meet the defined proving requirements for mainnet integration.
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