Starknet has achieved a remarkable milestone, garnering an impressive 93.52% support from its community in a recent governance poll, which closed on October 22. This vote, involving approximately 3,200 participants, signifies a pivotal moment for the blockchain as it seeks to explore the feasibility of becoming an independent layer-1 network focused on quantum security.
While the outcome of the poll showcases strong community backing, it’s crucial to note that this is a non-binding vote. It allows StarkWare and the Starknet Foundation to conduct further research into the potential for a standalone blockchain, but it does not authorize any immediate departure from the Ethereum ecosystem. Any future transition would require a separate binding vote from the community.
Currently, Starknet remains an Ethereum layer-2 solution while the groundwork for a potentially independent network is laid. StarkWare CEO Eli Ben-Sasson has indicated that a draft whitepaper outlining technical proposals is expected to be released in November. This document will serve as a foundation for a joint working group focused on exploring the operational mechanics of a potential independent network.
The Importance of Ethereum Dependence
The proposal to investigate an independent layer-1 blockchain was initiated on October 8 due to Starknet’s reliance on Ethereum for transaction data and bridging services. Any advancements in Starknet’s infrastructure would still be aligned with Ethereum’s security timeline. Meanwhile, Ethereum developers are actively enhancing their platform’s proof security as they incorporate zero-knowledge technology.
Starknet is already utilizing STARK proofs, which are built on hash-based methods. Its account architecture is designed to support new digital signatures without necessitating significant protocol changes, positioning Starknet to offer protection against potential future threats posed by quantum computing.
However, transitioning to a separate blockchain would require the development of independent systems for transaction verification and record-keeping. Researchers are tasked with determining how these systems would function before presenting a comprehensive plan to the token holders.
Roadmap to Quantum Resistance
The ongoing discourse on quantum security is fueled by recent advancements in quantum computing research. Notably, a study from Google highlighted progress in error reduction, though it did not indicate any attacks on blockchain security. StarkWare has similarly reported no incidents of such attacks.
In June, StarkWare unveiled a three-phase security roadmap aimed at enhancing signing methods, altering contracts, and developing infrastructure that currently relies on Ethereum. The Quantum Hub has already tested quantum-resistant transactions on Starknet, though independent audits of this methodology are still pending.
In parallel, a coalition of nine crypto companies has launched a joint initiative to bolster quantum security, particularly for Bitcoin, as the industry grapples with the timing of when quantum computing might pose a genuine threat to existing blockchain systems.
Ben-Sasson has set an ambitious goal for Starknet to achieve quantum resistance by 2027, while Ethereum has projected a timeline extending to 2029. However, no specific date has been established for the launch of an independent layer-1 network.
As the exploration for quantum security progresses, Starknet’s community is poised at a significant crossroads, balancing its current affiliations with Ethereum against the potential for a more autonomous and secure future.
