Ethereum’s zero-knowledge proof scaling system zkSync Era has introduced a new solution called ZK Stack, which aims to address the scalability and interoperability challenges faced by Layer 2 protocols. ZK Stack is a modular framework that facilitates the creation of ZK-powered custom blockchains called Hyperchains. These Hyperchains will operate as an additional layer on top of existing Layer 2 protocols, enabling seamless transfers of liquidity and flash loans between different protocols within the system. This functionality is not possible between Layer 1 blockchains.
The concept of ZK Stack bears similarities to Optimism’s Superchain network of Layer 2s, which was announced when Coinbase’s BASE became the first addition. However, ZK Stack eliminates the need for clunky and insecure token bridges that have often been exploited by hackers in significant cryptocurrency hacks. Alex Gluchowski, the co-founder and CEO of zkSync, highlighted that the framework is already available for developers to start building upon, with the first products set to go live on the testnet by the end of the year.
While Gluchowski expects the majority of decentralized applications (DApps) to migrate directly to Layer 2, Hyperchains powered by ZK Stack are expected to be utilized by projects with specific requirements relating to privacy, speed, and data availability. Potential users include gaming platforms, social networks, low-latency exchanges, and banks.
Since its launch, zkSync Era has experienced significant growth, accumulating a total value locked (TVL) of nearly $620 million. The network now processes approximately 20.8 million transactions per month at a rate of around 8 transactions per second, with peak performance reaching 12 transactions per second.
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Gluchowski likened the ZK Stack framework to the expanding network of the internet, emphasizing its limitless growth potential. He explained that, similar to how the internet infrastructure can be expanded by adding more servers, cables, and connections, ZK Stack allows for scalable growth from thousands to billions of servers. This scalability is achieved through recursive scaling, where transactions are batched into a zero-knowledge proof (ZK proof), and multiple ZK proofs are then combined into a single proof for greater compression. Theoretically, this enables the system to scale to any level of demand.
ZK Stack operates through open-source code released under the MIT/Apache license. While zkSync has confirmed the involvement of a couple of major partners in testing the system, specific details have not been provided.
While ZK Stack has the potential to connect with other ZK roll-ups like Polygon’s zkEVM, ConsenSys’ Linea, or StarkNet, Gluchowski indicated that this is unlikely to happen in the near future. Therefore, the interoperability challenge with ZK roll-ups may not be resolved by ZK Stack.
In conclusion, zkSync Era’s ZK Stack presents a significant development in the Ethereum ecosystem, offering a modular framework for building custom blockchains known as Hyperchains. With its focus on scalability and interoperability, ZK Stack aims to facilitate seamless transfers and interactions between Layer 2 protocols, addressing the limitations of Layer 1 blockchains. The framework’s ongoing growth and integration with major partners indicate a promising future for zkSync Era and its innovative approach to blockchain scalability.
