Ethereum devs plan Layer 1 zkEVM rollout, target full zero-knowledge proofs across protocol stack

The Ethereum Foundation has outlined a one-year plan to integrate zero-knowledge proofs into the main chain, beginning with an optional Layer 1 zkEVM client software that could later become mandatory.

In a post titled “Shipping an L1 zkEVM #1: Realtime Proving,” protocol engineer Sophia Gold said validators will eventually be able to verify blocks by checking three independent zk-proofs instead of re-executing transactions. Proofs must meet strict “real-time” benchmarks, including 10-second latency for 99 % of blocks, 128-bit security (100-bit minimum at launch), proof sizes under 300 KiB, and the ability to run on hardware costing no more than $100,000 and using less than 10 kW.

Only a small number of validators are expected to run the new clients at first. As confidence grows—backed by audits, formal verification, and bug bounties—the gas limit could be raised to a point that makes proof checking the default. The same proofs would then power native zk-rollups, Gold wrote.

Gold challenged zkVM teams to hit the latency goal by Devconnect Argentina in November, calling it a “race to real-time.” A successful rollout would make Ethereum the largest live application of zero-knowledge tech and open the door to on-chain privacy, signature aggregation, and higher throughput.

Broader ecosystem shake-up

Ethereum’s push comes as rival blockchains race to integrate zk proofs, as rollups already rely on similar cryptography across Layer 2s. Gold’s post marks the network’s clearest roadmap yet for incorporating the tech directly into its consensus, moving the project a step closer to what co-founder Vitalik Buterin has previously described as a zk-friendly future.

The zkEVM drive also lands as the foundation reorganises its protocol and ecosystem development arm to speed real-world adoption. New streamlined teams will focus on core security systems under the “One Trillion Security” initiative, guiding developers around key focus points while grants and strategic funding units broaden financial support.