Zero-knowledge EVM or zkEVM are versions of the EVM compatible with zero-knowledge proofs. They are designed to run smart contracts on the network with ZK-like proofs. In a March 31 article, Vitalik Buterin spoke of the impact they can have on decentralization and security. The Ethereum co-founder explained how zkEVMs will improve the verification process on the Ethereum blockchain. He is campaigning for this technology to be integrated into the network.
zkEVMs are important for Ethereum network security
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin believes that a zkEVM can be built directly on the network without compromising its decentralization. This technology could instead improve the security of the Ethereum blockchain. She can also make the verification process faster on the base layer. The co-founder explained that the Ethereum blockchain was developed following a multi-client concept to guarantee its decentralization.
Also, once integrated into the network, the zkEVM would represent a third type of customer for Ethereum, according to Buterin. Network co-founder said : “Once this is done, zkEVMs will become a de facto third type of Ethereum client, just as important to network security as runtime clients and consensus clients are today.“.
In fact, the execution client is responsible for detecting new transactions on the blockchain to execute them. It runs in a standard EVM, and then the client makes sure to keep a copy of the latest network state. As for the consensus client, it implements the Proof-of-Stake (PoS) mechanism. It thus ensures that the validators of the network reach an agreement.
The best way to integrate them, according to Vitalik Buterin
Buterin believes that zkEVMs should be “open”, for the good of the Ethereum network. It means that each customer will have a specific zkEVM implementation. Also, he will only be able to validate a block after having obtained a proof compatible with his implementation.
According to the co-founder of Ethereum, such an approach would preserve the “multi-client” paradigm. Moreover, it would guarantee the development of new customers for a reinforcement of the decentralization on the base layer.
Buterin did not fail to mention the possible disadvantages of the zkEVM infrastructure which he presented in detail last August. He explained that this could lead to latency issues and data inefficiency. However, he expects these challenges will not be difficult to overcome.
Receive a digest of news in the world of cryptocurrencies by subscribing to our new service of daily and weekly so you don’t miss any of the essential Tremplin.io!
