zkEVMs are the latest groundbreaking technology in Ethereum scaling, but in order to understand zkEVMs we first need to understand what EVM means, as well as what zk means, so here’s the breakdown and at the end, we’ll tie it together.
What Is Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)?
Ethereum virtual machine is essentially a global virtual computer hosted on the Ethereum Network, hence the words ‘Virtual Machine.’ This computer powers the Decentralized Applications (dApps) and Executes the Smart Contracts on the Ethereum network.
What is ZK technology?
ZK proof stands for a Zero Knowledge proof, this is the technology used in zero-knowledge rollups, which are layer2 scaling solutions. ZK rollups simply explained: roll up a bunch of transactions, these transactions are then submitted to the Ethereum blockchain and verified as 1 single transaction. For example, you have 10,000 transactions happen on the ZK-rollup which are then sent to ETH as 1 transaction, mixing the high throughput of the smaller Layer2 with the security and decentralization of Ethereum.
zkEVMs
ZK-Rollups (link) originally could only execute basic transactions such as token swaps and transfers. ZK-EVMs are rollups that are coded using EVM languages such as solidity, this makes them compatible with Ethereum Virtual Machine, allowing them to Run Ethereum Compatible dApps and execute smart contracts on the rollups.
A Groundbreaking Innovation
Optimistic rollups till now have led the charge to scale Ethereum because they are evm compatible, however, ZK-rollups have been the superior rollup technology aside from the fact that until now they have lacked EVM compatibility. Now That zkEVMs are starting to roll out – and far quicker than many expected – it will be pivotal in the medium to long term for the Ethereum layer2 sector.
