Proto-Danksharding: A Game-Changer for Ethereum?
Zero-knowledge proof (ZK-proofs) solutions have played a critical role in scaling the Ethereum ecosystem. However, the introduction of proto-danksharding, also known as EIP-4844, is expected to further reduce the cost of rollups by 10 times, according to Nicolas Liochon, head of Consensys' zkEVM Linea.
What are Rollups and their Limitations?
Rollups are a popular method for batching transactions and data off-chain, while submitting computational proof to the Ethereum blockchain. While this approach has helped in reducing costs, the current implementation still has limitations. Ethereum's layer one transactions are 15 times more expensive compared to those made on Linea. Additionally, the data submitted in rollups remains stored on the chain indefinitely, leading to higher costs and inefficiencies.
The Solution: Proto-Danksharding
The proposed solution, proto-danksharding (EIP-4844), aims to introduce data blocks that can be sent and attached to blocks. These data blocks, stored in blobs, will not be accessible to the Ethereum Virtual Machine and will be deleted after a certain time period. This innovation is anticipated to significantly reduce transaction costs, making rollups a more efficient scaling solution.
Addressing the Cost of Rollups
Liochon emphasized that the major cost in rollups is data availability. While computation and cryptographic proof are relatively inexpensive, the storage of data on layer one represents 95% of the cost. By implementing proto-danksharding, Linea aims to address this issue and make ZK-rollups a go-to solution for scaling the Ethereum ecosystem.
A Generic Rollup for All Applications
Linea aims to be a general use ZK-rollup, supporting a wide range of decentralized applications and solutions within the Ethereum ecosystem. Liochon emphasized the importance of supporting all types of applications, including DeFi, gaming, and social platforms.
In August 2023, Consensys successfully launched Linea, bringing on board over 150 partners and bridging more than $26 million worth of ETH. With the introduction of proto-danksharding, the future of Ethereum's scaling solutions looks promising.
