zk-Rollups are a second-layer scaling technology used in blockchains like Ethereum to increase transaction speed and reduce fees while maintaining the security of the base blockchain.
How it works:
zk-Rollups aggregate multiple transactions into one bundle, or “rollup,” which is then sent to the main blockchain. Instead of verifying each transaction individually, a zero-knowledge proof (zk-proof) is used. This proof demonstrates that all transactions within the bundle are valid without disclosing the details of each transaction.
Key Benefits:
- Reduced network load: Instead of processing each transaction individually, the network validates an entire batch of transactions.
- Lower fees: By bundling transactions, the overall cost decreases, making zk-Rollups more cost-effective for users.
- Security: The technology maintains a high level of security because transactions are protected by the base blockchain (e.g., Ethereum).
Examples of usage:
- zkSync, StarkNet — these projects use zk-Rollups to improve network throughput without compromising decentralization and security.
Goal of zk-Rollups:
The main objective of zk-Rollups is to solve the scalability issues of blockchains, helping to reduce the high fees and delays that networks face during peak demand periods.