tl;dr
Ethereum plans to integrate the zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (zkEVM) into its layer-1 blockchain within a year, enhancing scalability and censorship resistance. This integration will allow validators to verify zk-proofs instead of re-executing blocks, aiming for real-time proof generation...
Ethereum is advancing its long-term scalability strategy by integrating the zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (zkEVM) directly into its layer-1 blockchain. On July 10, Sophia Gold from the Ethereum Foundation announced plans to launch the L1 zkEVM within a year, marking a significant step toward more efficient and censorship-resistant scaling.
Zero-knowledge (ZK) cryptography enables proof verification without exposing the underlying data, a technique already popular in Ethereum Layer 2 solutions. The foundation aims to bring zkEVM capabilities to the core chain, allowing validators to verify zk-proofs instead of re-executing blocks. This model involves multiple zk-proofs generated by different zkVMs, representing diverse EVM implementations. Gold expressed optimism about going live before Devconnect Argentina in November, crediting improvements in proving efficiency and hardware design.
A key objective of this rollout is achieving “real-time proving,” where proof generation and verification happen within the network’s typical 12-second slot time. The goal is to handle 99% of mainnet blocks within 10 seconds, with outliers managed in subsequent updates. Crucially, Ethereum plans to support “home proving” so that solo stakers can run validators and generate zk-proofs without costly or centralized infrastructure.
Technical benchmarks set by the foundation include maintaining proof latency under 10 seconds, limiting capital expenditure to $100,000 or less, keeping power consumption below 10kW, and proof sizes under 300KiB. The entire system will be open source and designed to meet a minimum security threshold of 128 bits.
Alongside this technical roadmap, the Ethereum Foundation has created an Ecosystem Development (EcoDev) team to boost accessibility and adoption. The team will concentrate on expanding the developer community, enhancing relations with app builders and enterprises, supporting research, and helping founders succeed. Initiatives include grants, funding programs, and an early-stage project launchpad, all aiming to grow Ethereum’s user base and reinforce its technical and social infrastructure.