Ethereum scaling protocol ZKM has unveiled a test network for its zero-knowledge virtual machine (zkVM), Alpha Testnet, aiming to establish Ethereum as a settlement layer for trusted computing.Â
In conjunction with standard computing techniques, zero-knowledge proofs facilitate confidential, verifiable computing. Through zero-knowledge proofs, one party can demonstrate the validity of a statement or computation to another party without revealing any sensitive information beyond the validity itself.
The zkVM architecture integrates zero-knowledge technology with the MIPS processor architecture. This allows untrusted computers to generate trusted computation results and store verification proofs on Ethereum.
The process first runs a target application to collect intermediary states (execution trace). The trace gets encoded into polynomials (arithmetization) and then cryptographically committed using zero-knowledge proofs. The resulting proof can verify the correct execution without exposing sensitive data.
ZKM is rolling out the zkVM in stages, starting by integrating with Ethereum optimistic rollups. The next phase will focus on interoperability across blockchains before extending functionality to non-blockchain systems.
Also Read: Vitalik Buterin Says ZK-EVMs Will be Crucial to Ethereum
