Ethereum’s zkEVM: Mainnet in 12 Months
Ethereum’s gearing up for a major upgrade! The Ethereum Foundation has unveiled a 12-month plan to roll out a Layer 1 zkEVM client, bringing zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) to the mainnet. This could make Ethereum faster, cheaper, and more private. Here’s the scoop.
What’s zkEVM?
zkEVM (Zero-Knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine) lets Ethereum verify transactions using compact cryptographic proofs instead of re-running them. Benefits include:
- Higher transaction speed
- Lower gas fees
- Enhanced privacy
- Better Layer 2 rollups
The Plan
1.Pilot Phase: A small group of validators will test zkEVM clients alongside current software.
2. Gradual Shift: With audits and bug bounties, Ethereum will favor proof verification over transaction replay.
3. Mandatory Checks: Proof verification may become required, unlocking full zkEVM potential.
Real-Time Proving
The “real-time proving” benchmark demands:
- 99% of blocks verified in 10 seconds
- 128-bit security
- Proofs under 300 KiB
- Runs on <$100K hardware with <10 kW power
Sophia Gold’s challenging teams to hit these by Devconnect Argentina, aiming to make Ethereum the biggest ZK application.
Validator Buy-In
To get validators on board, Ethereum’s offering:
- Formal verification grants
- Expanded bug bounties
- “One Trillion Security” teams
Why It Matters
zkEVM promises a zk-friendly future with private data handling, streamlined smart contracts, and scalable rollups. It’s a bold step to keep Ethereum ahead in blockchain innovation.
What’s your take on Ethereum’s zkEVM plan? Share below!
