Vitalik Buterin, co-founder of Ethereum, has unveiled a conceptual architecture known as the enshrined Zero-Knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (ZK-EVM) with the goal of enhancing the efficiency of Ethereum’s main chain.
In his latest blog post, Buterin outlines that the proposal for the enshrined ZK-EVM aims to incorporate advanced cryptographic techniques directly into Ethereum’s main chain. The primary objective is to establish a more secure and efficient verification process for Ethereum transactions. This initiative is specifically designed to enhance and optimize the functionality of Layer-2 applications on the Ethereum network.
Enshrined ZK-EVM on Layer-1
The core concept behind the enshrined Zero-Knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (ZK-EVM) is to establish an intrinsic, in-protocol mechanism for validating Ethereum blocks through Zero-Knowledge Proofs. This system is designed to decrease reliance on external codebases, thereby minimizing the risks associated with potential bugs in these external systems.
Vitalik Buterin highlighted the suboptimal nature of the current situation, where various projects are duplicating a functionality already present in the Ethereum protocol. The enshrined ZK-EVM is envisioned to perform functions akin to the existing Layer-1 Ethereum blocks, but with heightened security and efficiency. “The most important property, in addition to basic guarantees of correct functionality and security, is speed,” Buterin emphasized.
A crucial aspect of this proposal is its alignment with Ethereum’s multi-client philosophy, emphasizing the significance of accommodating various clients with diverse proving systems. Vitalik Buterin underlined the importance of steering clear of enshrining a singular proving system and, instead, fostering an environment where different clients can employ distinct proving systems.
Buterin also delves into the necessity of ensuring data availability and auditability within the proposed system. He argues that any execution validated by the ZK-EVM must assure accessibility of the underlying data for inspection in the event of issues. This commitment to transparency is deemed vital for upholding trust and reliability within the Ethereum network.
Key Terms and Concepts
Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZK-Proofs): These are cryptographic techniques enabling one party to prove the truth of a statement to another party without disclosing any information beyond the validity of that statement. In the blockchain context, ZK-Proofs facilitate the verification of transactions while upholding privacy and minimizing the amount of data that needs processing and storage.
Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM): Functioning as a decentralized, global-scale computer, the EVM is the framework in which all Ethereum accounts and smart contracts exist and interact. Every transaction or execution of a smart contract on Ethereum is processed through the EVM, acting as the central executor for all network activities.
Layer 2 Solutions: These refer to technologies constructed atop a blockchain, often referred to as Layer 1, with the aim of enhancing scalability and efficiency. Layer 2 solutions, such as rollups or state channels, manage transactions off the main chain, alleviating the load on the primary blockchain while still deriving security from it.
