zkEVM upgrade narrative zkVM, why are these five core projects worthy of attention?

In the search for solutions to blockchain’s scalability and computational efficiency, zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) technology is particularly important. z kVM (Zero-Knowledge Virtual Machine) is one of the specific applications of this technology. z kVM, as a general computing platform based on ZKP, can verify the correctness of calculations without revealing execution details. It also supports processing computationally heavy tasks outside the chain and only submits the verification results to the blockchain, which greatly improves the scalability of the blockchain. Currently, multiple projects on the market such as a16z, Taiko, ZKM, etc. are developing zkVM solutions.

Introduction to zkVM

zkVM is a general computing platform based on zero-knowledge proof , capable of performing various computing tasks, including executing smart contracts, data processing, and complex algorithm operations. Its core function is to generate zero-knowledge proofs that verify the correctness of calculations without revealing execution details. Through SNARKs technology, these proofs can be verified off-chain, and the verifier does not need to re-execute the entire calculation process on the blockchain and incur expensive calculation costs.

In addition, the design of zkVM is not limited to cryptocurrency transactions. Its versatility allows it to be deployed in a variety of application scenarios, such as medical data processing, supply chain management, secret voting systems, etc. These applications need to ensure data security while verifying the correctness of the processing logic.

zkVM Comparison with other virtual machines

Traditional virtual machine (VM) usually refers to virtualizing a complete computing environment on physical hardware. The core function is to simulate the hardware environment, allowing Multiple operating systems or applications run on the same physical hardware. These virtual machines mainly implement their functions through hardware virtualization technology and operating system level isolation. They generally do not involve the process of cryptographically authenticating the applications or data running within them.

Zero-knowledge virtual machine (zkVM) uses zero-knowledge proof technology to ensure the correctness of program execution. This technology is applicable to any program that can be compiled and run on a virtual machine. The design of zkVM focuses on providing a general computing verification platform that is suitable for various application scenarios and supports multiple programming languages, such as Rust, C/C++ and Go. Developers can use the languages ​​they are familiar with to build applications. The calculation and verification process are often more time-consuming than traditional VMs, because generating zero-knowledge proofs is a computationally intensive process that requires a large amount of computing resources, which greatly limits the transaction processing speed (TPS ). Although current ZK technology has made significant progress in single proof generation, it is still limited in its ability to handle large-scale transactions under high load conditions. The generation of each proof can take anywhere from seconds to minutes, which poses a limitation for applications that require high throughput, such as large-scale payment processing systems. zkEVM is a specific implementation of zkVM, specially designed for the Ethereum ecosystem and aims to enhance the scalability of Ethereum through zero-knowledge proofs. It is fully compatible with Ethereum’s smart contracts and development tools, such as Solidity and Vyper, and existing Ethereum applications can be seamlessly migrated to zkEVM without any modifications. Therefore, zkEVM is more like a specifically optimized version of Ethereum.

zkVM related projectsDespite the challenges of zk technology, there are still some projects on the market that are developing zk VM solutions. Out of technical strength.

Jolt: Excellent performance

On April 9, a16z released the zkVM solution

The initial implementation of Jolt, Jolt is a new type of zkVM, the main features It's runs fast and is easier for developers to extend and conduct code audits.

Unlike other zkVMs based on the STARK framework, Jolt utilizes Lasso lookup parameters and sumcheck-based technology. This innovative approach not only simplifies the implementation of new virtual machine instructions, but also increases the overall speed of the system. Jolt's design emphasizes ease of use and efficiency. Its code base is very streamlined. Each CPU instruction in Jolt only requires 50 lines of Rust code to implement. In addition, Jolt's performance is also very good. In preliminary benchmark tests, it can perform zero-knowledge proofs more than 5 times faster than RISC Zero and 2 times faster than SP1.

RISC Zero: Efficiently handle complex calculations

RISC Zero is a zkVM with a recursive SNARK structure, which is characterized by a support for proofs to be nested in each other recursive method. In SNARKs technology, recursion can break down complex proofs into smaller, more manageable proofs. These small proofs can be verified independently and eventually combined into a complete large proof, a process that does not affect the validity of the proof. RISC Zero is unique in its approach to recursion, which seamlessly integrates multiple layers of proofs into a single proof chain, not only reducing the computational load and data that needs to be processed quantity and maintain the security and integrity of the verification process across multiple computational steps. Another unique feature of RISC Zero is that it uses the RISC-V instruction set, which is an

open standard ISA

(Instruction Set Architecture), designed for scalability and extensibility. This choice ensures that RISC Zero can leverage a broad ecosystem of tools and support, making it easier to access and integrate into existing systems than other zkVMs that may use proprietary or less general-purpose architectures. Last year they successfully completed a $40 million Series A round of financing. This round of financing was led by Blockchain Capital, with other well-known investors including Bain Capital Crypto, Galaxy Digital, IOSG Ventures, RockawayX, Maven 11, Fenbushi Capital, Delphi Digital, etc. participating.

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Succinct: Developer Friendly

Succinct Developed zkVM SP1, SP1 is customized for the flexibility and ease of use of executing code written in Rust or any other language that can be compiled with LLVM higher. SP1 supports a modular architecture, allowing developers to customize and extend its functionality through "pre-compilation". Precompilation refers to specific modules that can be added or modified by developers. These modules enhance the functionality of the core virtual machine so that it can handle specific tasks or operations more efficiently.

In addition, SP1 builds a decentralized prover network, simplifying the deployment and execution of proofs, thereby lowering the threshold for using advanced encryption methods. The network provides a streamlined approach by enabling developers to efficiently generate proofs with just one click.

In March, Succinct closed $55 million in funding. The financing was led by Paradigm, with participation from investors including Robot Ventures, Bankless Ventures, Geometry, and angel investors Eigenlayer’s Sreeram Kannan and Polygon co-founder Sandeep Nailwal. On May 13, Succinct announced the launch of SP1 testnet.

Taiko: Multi-proof system

Taiko has begun to transform from using zkEVM to using zkVM. The uniqueness of zkVM lies in its use of multi-proof system. The multi-proof concept was proposed by Vitalik. Taiko stated that it is the first project to implement this concept and will directly support this multi-proof system when the mainnet goes online at the end of May. This system allows Taiko's zkVM to generate multiple types of proofs, thereby increasing the security and robustness of the system. Even if there is a problem with one of the proof types, the other types of proofs can continue to ensure the normal operation of the system and detect any erroneous state transitions in a timely manner. In addition, the Halo2-KZG proof system is adopted to maintain efficiency and low cost when processing complex calculations and large-scale transactions.

In March, Taiko completed a $15 million Series A financing, co-led by Lightspeed Faction, Hashed, Generative Ventures and Token Bay Capital, with participation from Wintermute Ventures, Flow Traders, Amber Group, OKX Ventures and GSR and others participated in the investment.

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ZKM: MIPS architectureSimple and stable

ZKM was incubated by the Metis Foundation The zkVM project adopts the MIPS architecture and combines it with zero-knowledge proof technology to create a zk virtual machineThis design makes ZKP more consistent with the computing processing method inside the system, speeds up operations and reduces the need to implement ZKP alone Computational overhead associated with the protocol. And currently most zkVMs use the Rust language, while ZKM provides native support for Golang.

MIPS (Microprocessor without Interlocked Pipeline Stages) is the first generation of reduced instruction set computer architecture. The MIPS instruction set is relatively simple and stable. It can be widely used in various computing devices and embedded systems. It has good versatility and adaptability. ZKM system based on MIPS architecture Can be developed and deployed more easily.

zk MIPS divides the entire MIPS program into segments. The instructions of each segment are then divided into four types and classified into the corresponding four module tables. zk MIPS uses the STARK proof method to independently verify the instructions in each module table, ensuring that every operation in the table is correct and that every instruction in the program segment is contained in its corresponding module table. Then verify that the execution sequence of each program segment matches the execution of the entire program. In this way, even programs executed off-chain can be verified on-chain, enhancing the transparency and trust of program execution.

ZKM recently launched Entangled Rollups, a new trust-minimized multi-chain interoperability infrastructure, using zkMIPS to build a trustless, decentralized multi-chain interoperability framework. Unlike third-party zk bridges that only verify asset transfers through snapshots, all calculations can be verified, so it is very secure. The key to this interoperability is the existence of a common proof mechanism that can generate proofs on one blockchain and then verify them on another blockchain. One of the differences between ZKM and other zkVMs is that it can generate a zero-knowledge proof that is applicable to all operations. ZKM embeds security into the bottom layer of the CPU/MIPS architecture, so that all software on top of the architecture can enjoy the same security without the need for each software to undergo a separate zero-knowledge proof process.

In addition, ZKM features:

• Compatible with all virtual machines: ZKM is located under each virtual machine, making it compatible with various blockchain intelligence Contract engine VM is compatible, such as Move VM (zk M V M), WAS M (zk WAS M) and Rust V M (zk R V M), etc.
• Plug and Play: Developers can adopt ZKM without changing their existing code base. Provides low-cost adoption and allows the use of different smart contract languages ​​and even traditional programming languages.
• Long-term stability: The MIPS instruction set is stable and does not need to be changed with the constantly changing EVM, providing a more stable environment for development.

Future Outlook of zkVM

With the continuous maturity of blockchain technology and the continuous exploration of cutting-edge companies, the performance of zkVM is constantly improving. We can foresee that zkVM will play an increasingly important role in the encryption world. important role and become part of key technologies. Especially at a time when data sensitivity and demand for cross-chain security are increasing, the capabilities provided by zkVM adapt to market needs. We look forward to overcoming various technical difficulties, such as circuit optimization and optimization of the proof system itself, launching zkVM that is perfectly adapted to various programming languages, and bringing more developers to the new era of Web3.

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