With layer 2 developer StarkWare cartridge, We introduce a new scaling framework called ZKThreads to improve the scalability of decentralized applications on Layer 2 Starknet through execution sharding enabled by zero-knowledge proofs.
It builds on the fractal scaling vision introduced by StarkWare in 2021.
ZKThreads will be used to expand Starknet’s array of “fractal scaling” solutions and will provide an alternative to existing ZK coprocessors that operate in a similar manner, StarkWare told The Block.
Therefore, although effective, traditional coprocessors often operate independently, fragmenting liquidity and reducing interoperability between applications. The introduction of ZKThreads aims to address this fragmentation problem by providing a standardized development environment that supports provable applications.
Execution sharding enforced by ZKThreads efficiently processes various segments of a network transaction or computation while maintaining security through zero-knowledge proofs. This setup allows blockchain dapps to scale effectively by offloading computation and transactions without compromising the decentralization or security of the network.
This framework can also be used with layer 3 chains in the Starknet ecosystem. While these layer 3 chains support the scaling of dapps that require fully customizable control, ZKThreads is designed for more flexible scaling, allowing direct fallback to the base layer, ensuring liveness at every step. The goal is to increase composability, security, and interoperability of ecosystem dapps.
“ZKThreads opens the door to running directly on Starknet when needed, ensuring vitality at every step and a more streamlined design for dapps,” Louis Guthmann, head of product strategy at StarkWare, told The Block.
Starknet-based developer Cartridge will initially leverage ZKThreads to scale its on-chain gaming. The anticipated development schedule for ZKThreads launch is expected to be 9 months prior to implementation on testnet.
How does it work?
At the core of the ZKThreads architecture are several essential components: batch processors, provers, and various contracts that handle application logic and state changes in a network like Starknet. This setup aims to ensure that transactions are accurate and available across Starknet.
Another aspect of ZKThreads is its ability to facilitate direct execution on Starknet when needed. This is done by implementing application logic in the app contract on the thread that oversees creating and modifying transactions and changing state. These transactions are then grouped into subblocks to improve processing time and optimize resource utilization.
ZKThreads is expected to scale high-performance dapps on Starknet, especially for session-based on-chain games like poker or chess. Players only need to pay a fee once the game is over and the results are recorded on the public Starknet, making it economically feasible to host a wider range of game genres on the blockchain, according to Starkware.
This framework is also set up to enhance decentralized applications, particularly decentralized exchanges on Starknet. For example, ZKThreads allows decentralized exchanges to significantly reduce operating costs by allowing users to only charge fees at the time of cashing out rather than every transaction.
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