Ethereum Prepares Layer 1 zkEVM to Validate Blocks with ZK Proofs
- zkEVM L1 will bring ZK proofs to Ethereum core
- ZK proofs can replace transaction re-execution
- Ethereum Foundation Reorganizes Teams to Accelerate Adoption
Ethereum developers are planning to integrate zero-knowledge proofs directly into Layer 1 of the network, through an optional version of zkEVM, with the goal of transforming block verification into a process based on cryptographic proofs rather than transaction re-execution.
The Ethereum Foundation has recently announced the plan of launching an L1 zkEVM.
The Ethereum Foundation proposes a path to launch an L1 zkEVM in under a year.
The idea is to start with offchain proof verification by validators, using zk clients to validate execution instead… pic.twitter.com/pEgueSwEyT
— Kingjami 🎒 (@__cryptowizard) July 11, 2025
The proposal, detailed by protocol engineer Sophia Gold in a post titled "Submitting a zkEVM L1 #1: Real-Time Proof," envisions a system in which validators can confirm blocks by analyzing three independent zk proofs. The technical goals include latency of less than 10 seconds for 99% of blocks, proof size under 300 KiB, and execution possible on hardware costing up to US$100, with a maximum power consumption of 10 kW.
Initially, only a small number of validators are expected to adopt zkEVM clients. However, as trust grows, supported by audits, formal verification, and bug bounties, the technology is expected to become standard and even power native zk-rollups.
Gold challenged zkVM teams to achieve the latency target by Devconnect Argentina in November, calling the development a "race to real-time." If successfully implemented, the Layer 1 zkEVM would position Ethereum as the largest active use case for zk technology, paving the way for features like on-chain privacy, signature aggregation, and increased scalability.
This advancement comes as competing blockchains also race to integrate ZK proofs, especially on secondary layers. Gold's publication represents the most concrete roadmap yet for applying ZK technology to the network's own consensus, bringing the project closer to Vitalik Buterin's vision of the platform's ZK-friendly future.
At the same time, the Ethereum Foundation is revamping its organizational structure, with new teams dedicated to security and practical adoption of the technology. The strategy includes the "One Trillion Security" program, focused on strengthening the network's core security components, as well as expanding grants and support for developers contributing to the zkEVM ecosystem.
Disclaimer: The content of this article solely reflects the author's opinion and does not represent the platform in any capacity. This article is not intended to serve as a reference for making investment decisions.
You may also like
Gasoline Prices Rise in Tandem with Election Poll Trends! Goldman Sachs: With 26 Days Left Until the Midterm Election, Probability of a Democratic Sweep Rises to 65%
Goldman Sachs states that the probability of a Democratic sweep has risen to 65%, but polls in red states have historically overestimated their advantage; the rise and fall of oil prices is the decisive variable.
Goldman Sachs continues to be bullish on PJM exposure IPP: Preferred Talen Energy (TLN.US), NRG Energy (NRG.US), and Vistra (VST.US)
FERC has essentially rejected the PJM electricity proposal. Goldman Sachs states that regulatory risks have been disproven and is optimistic about three buy-rated targets: Talen Energy, Vistra, and NRG Energy. The capacity auction price for December is expected to approach the upper clearing limit.
Storage chip profits soar, why did the Korean stock market hit the brakes first? Morgan Stanley reveals the "stock price turning point" in the super cycle
The Morgan Stanley strategy team led by Shawn Kim is most optimistic about the core computing industry chain for AI infrastructure, including GPUs, ASICs, wafer foundry, and advanced packaging. They also favor the optical interconnect and high-performance network infrastructure supply chain. As for memory chips, they adopt a selective allocation approach, focusing on structural growth opportunities and tactical investments in major original manufacturers.
Crypto prices
More
