Ethereum's ZK Conclusion: From World Computer to Verifiable Computer

Ethereum is undergoing a comprehensive transition to zero-knowledge proof technology, which will fundamentally change its architecture and ecosystem. Recently, Ethereum engineer Sophia Gold published a blog post titled "Delivering L1 zkEVM #1: Real-Time Proofs," showcasing the core development blueprint for Ethereum's future: fully integrating zero-knowledge proof technology at all levels of the Layer 1 protocol.

The core of this transformation lies in shifting the consensus verification mechanism from a "re-execution" model to a "proof verification" model. Under the new L1 zkEVM architecture, block builders will simultaneously generate a concise ZK validity proof. Other validators only need to verify this cryptographic proof without re-executing the transactions. This approach can significantly increase the Gas limit of blocks, achieving substantial scaling of L1.

Ethereum has set strict technical standards for this transformation, including a proof delay of under 10 seconds, 128-bit cryptographic security, and a proof size of less than 300 KiB. It also introduces a "multi-proof" security mechanism, requiring multiple independent teams to generate multiple proofs for the same block to enhance the robustness of the system.

The motivations for this strategic transformation include:

1. Correct the negative impact brought by the "L2-centric" economic model.
2. Responding to the competitive pressure of high-performance public chains
3. Prepare for the wave of RWA and institutional finance

The ZK transformation process of Ethereum has already begun, from Vitalik Buterin's proposal to replace EVM with RISC-V, to Justin Drake announcing "full commitment to ZK". Technical breakthroughs are also gradually being realized, such as improvements in proof speed and EVM compatibility.

This transformation will reshape the Layer 2 ecosystem. The introduction of "native Rollup" will bring significant advantages to ZK Rollup. However, Optimistic Rollup faces challenges, but leading projects have begun to actively transform, such as Optimism investing in the development of ZK fraud proofs and Arbitrum proposing a ZK+Optimistic hybrid proof scheme.

Systemic impacts will permeate performance, decentralization, and economic models:

• Performance is expected to improve by 10-100 times
• Forming a new economic division of labor: Provers, Validators
• Reshaping the ETH value capture model
• Create synergies with Danksharding

Ethereum is evolving from a "world computer" to a "verifiable world computer." This transformation not only paves the way for Ethereum itself but also builds a more secure, trustworthy, and scalable foundation for the entire decentralized world.