The Ethereum Layer 2 zkSync Era’s core developer, Matter Labs, has revealed Boojum, a STARK-powered proof system that can be run on GPU hardware suitable for home use and promises greater performance.
The upgraded Zero-Knowledge (ZK) circuits, essential parts of the zkSync Era and ZK Stack, are powered by a new Rust-based cryptographic library from zkSync, which serves as the foundation of the proof system.
The proof system (prover) used by the zkSync Era has been based on SNARKs, a type of zero-knowledge proof. Currently, this system aids its Layer 2 sequencer (off-chain transaction aggregator) in processing more than 100 TPS (transaction per second). The team claims that Boojum, which is built on STARKs, promises multiple times faster throughput.
A prover is a component in the context of Layer 2 blockchain systems that is in charge of producing a proof of computation. The primary blockchain (Layer 1) or other validators then validate this proof. The goal is to remove computing tasks from the main blockchain, improving app scalability.
Advantages of zkSync’s new proof system Boojum
According to Anthony Rose, SVP of technology at Matter Labs, “The increased performance from Boojum means the system can prove transactions faster, and the reduced hardware requirements improve the network’s access to cheaper machines for increased horizontal scalability.”
Boojum’s ability to run on consumer-grade GPUs with only 16 GB of GPU RAM is one of its biggest advantages. By allowing users with standard hardware to access the network, this feature fosters accessibility and inclusivity.
A testing phase of the Boojum upgrade is now live on the mainnet. The initial stage involves creating and validating “shadow proofs” using actual production data. Prior to the full migration, this testing process will assist zkSync Era fine-tune the system, spot any potential problems, and reduce risks.
Edited by Layer 2 Daily