Zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine – Get a better knowledge about polygon’s EVM and zkEVM

Zero-knowledge proofs are cryptographic techniques that enable proof of a statement’s validity without disclosing additional information. When integrated into scaling solutions like rollups, zero-knowledge technology can greatly enhance transaction privacy and reduce computational requirements on the blockchain. By implementing zero-knowledge scaling, Ethereum’s network can uphold its security while boosting capacity and transaction processing speed.

The Polygon network’s Polygon zkEVM invention is a solution for scaling that fuses the security features offered by the Ethereum mainnet alongside the scalability of a ZKP sidechain. It empowers developers to build and execute EVM-compatible smart contracts on a fast, cost-effective network, achieving a remarkable throughput of up to 7,000 transactions per second. The “zk” in “zkEVM” represents zero-knowledge, signifying the utilization of ZKP technology to validate transactions without exposing sensitive details. Leveraging ZKP, Polygon zkEVM delivers accelerated transaction speeds and reduced gas fees compared to the Ethereum mainnet while ensuring a robust security framework remains intact.

The EVM in Zero-knowledge EVM

ZkEVMs is designed to be compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), allowing seamless execution of Solidity-based smart contracts without modifications. However, in reality, certain zkEVMs may necessitate a custom compiler to generate bytecode specific to their implementation. The process of bytecode generation differs among teams, leading to variations in approaches across different zkEVM implementations.

Understanding both EVM and zero-knowledge EVM

– The Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) serves as the core smart contract engine for executing decentralized applications (dapps) and contracts on the Ethereum network.

– EVM’s compatibility with Layer-2 scaling solutions can be limited, often requiring substantial code modifications when transitioning between the mainnet and Layer-2.

– Zero-knowledge EVM (zkEVM) introduces a new generation of roll-up technology that utilizes zero-knowledge proofs to achieve full EVM compatibility.

– With zkEVM, developers can seamlessly port their code from the Ethereum mainnet to Layer-2 without significant changes.

– EVM and zkEVM handle transactions differently; while EVM processes them directly on the mainnet, zkEVM performs off-chain processing within a Layer-2 rollup.

– By offloading computational tasks to Layer-2, zkEVM reduces the strain on the Ethereum mainnet, resulting in faster and more cost-effective transactions.

– zkEVM has immense potential to enhance the scalability and efficiency of the Ethereum network, creating new possibilities for dapps, particularly those requiring higher throughput, such as gaming.

What are the types that zkEVMs that exist?

At present, there are four types of zero-knowledge EVM that exist.

Type 1: Completely Ethereum equivalent

Type 1 zkEVMs are designed to maintain full equivalence with Ethereum, preserving the state, transaction tree, hash code, and consensus logic. This compatibility ensures seamless integration with Ethereum-native applications. However, type 1 zkEVMs may require additional prover time for proof generation since no specific optimizations are implemented to expedite the process.

Type 2: Full EVM equivalent

Type 2 zkEVMs feature minor adjustments to facilitate simpler and faster proof generation. While these modifications enhance development and speed up the process, certain applications may not be compatible with this deployment type. However, type 2 zkEVMs may still encounter slower proving times compared to other approaches.

Type 3: Not completely EVM equivalent

Type 3 zkEVMs introduce modifications to EVM features such as precompiles, VM memory, stack, and smart contract code handling, aimed at simplifying application development and proof generation. While most Ethereum applications are compatible with this environment, certain ones may require adjustments to function properly within type 3 zkEVMs.

Type 4: Higher-level language equivalent

Type 4 systems involve compiling code written in high-level languages like Solidity or Vyper into a specifically designed language that aligns well with zero-knowledge proofs. This optimization enables significantly faster proof generation and reduced costs compared to other types of systems. By leveraging these advancements, developers can achieve greater efficiency and performance in their applications within the context of type 4 systems.

How Polygon will Scale Up Ethereum With zkEVM?

Polygon network employs Miden, Edge, Zero, Nightfall, Avail, Hermes, and zkEVM for scalability solutions. The remarkable advantages of zkEVM have propelled its widespread popularity in recent times.

Here are additional reasons why zkEVM aids Polygon’s scaling efforts:

• Seamless execution of existing Ethereum smart contracts by developers.

• Easy and permissionless access to the network, facilitates a smooth development experience.

• Tooling compatibility due to similarity with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM).

• Rapid network finality is achieved through frequent validity proofs.

• Significant reduction in fees, up to 90%, while preserving on-chain data.

• Support for all EVM opcodes, ensuring comprehensive functionality.

• Inherent decentralization through protocol design.

• These advantages lay the groundwork for exploring the challenges of zk-Rollups in greater detail.

The most use cases zero-knowledge EVMs 

Now that we’ve covered the introduction of zkEVM, it’s worth exploring its potential applications. Here are some of the use cases where Polygon zkEVM can be leveraged.

Defi Apps

Due to its exceptional security and resistance to censorship, Polygon’s zkEVM is well-suited for DeFi applications. Unlike optimistic roll-ups that entail waiting periods of up to 7 days for deposits and withdrawals, zk-Rollups on Polygon zkEVM offer greater capital efficiency for dApps and users by eliminating the need for extended waiting times.

Blue Chip Non-Fungible Tokens, Gamefi, and Other Apps

zkEVM stand out as an optimal solution offering low gas costs, high transaction volume, enhanced security, and Ethereum composability.

Payment Methodologies

Users seeking real-time, low-fee transactions in a fast-paced environment will greatly appreciate the advantages offered by Polygon zkEVM.

Concluding thoughts 

Ethereum, being the leading smart contract blockchain with a vast developer community, faces challenges of high costs and slow transactions on its mainnet. To address this, Ethereum is adopting a roll-up-centric roadmap for scaling. Among the notable advancements is zkEVM, which holds immense potential in attracting a wider audience to Ethereum and the crypto space.

As the race for the best zkEVM solution unfolds, the integration of Layer 2 (L2) solutions with native L1 applications to scale the Ethereum mainnet becomes a fascinating prospect. Zero-Knowledge rollups (ZK-Rollups) have emerged as a solution, offering enhanced scalability and privacy features. The development and integration of ZK-Rollups promise to propel Ethereum toward a future of greater scalability and advanced privacy functionalities. We Addus Technologies are one of the prominent zkEVM development services providing company that you can rely on stepping into this new trend.

Contact us right away to begin your journey into the world of zkEVM development