ZK-focused Manta Pacific Chooses Polygon CDK Over OP Stack

Manta Network Makes the Move

Manta, a blockchain network specializing in zero-knowledge (ZK) applications, has announced that it will be migrating its software from OP Stack to Polygon CDK. This decision means that Manta will not be joining the upcoming Optimism Superchain and will instead become a part of the Polygon ecosystem.

Zero-Knowledge Applications

Manta Network is an Ethereum layer-2 network that focuses on zero-knowledge-based applications, such as digital identity and privacy solutions. Since its launch on September 12, it has already processed over 500,000 transactions.

Competition in the Blockchain Space

Manta was initially developed as an optimistic rollup that used the OP Stack software created by Optimism Labs. This software aimed to create a "Superchain" of interconnected networks with a shared security model. However, it faced competition from the Polygon Chain Development Kit (CDK), which uses a different security model to create a web of interconnected blockchain networks.

Why the Switch to Polygon CDK?

Manta's decision to migrate to Polygon CDK was based on three key reasons. Firstly, Polygon CDK allows for faster processing of deposits and withdrawals, as they do not require a waiting period for fraud proofs to be submitted. This means that finality can be achieved in minutes or seconds instead of days.

Secondly, Manta stated that Polygon CDK offers more modularity and sovereignty compared to other alternatives. This gives the team greater flexibility as they continue to develop new features.

Lastly, using Polygon CDK will enable developers to create a trustless ZK bridge to Ethereum. This bridge will eventually allow users from different Polygon CDK networks to access each other's liquidity, creating a larger ecosystem.

The Expansion of Polygon

The Polygon ecosystem initially consisted of the Polygon Proof of Stake network. However, on March 27, the Polygon team launched the Polygon zkEVM network. In June, they announced plans to integrate these two networks into a new ecosystem known as "Polygon 2.0."

Optimism's Progress

The Optimism ecosystem also added a second network, Base network, on August 9 through Coinbase. Additionally, on October 3, the Optimism team launched a fraud-proof system that is intended to be utilized throughout their ecosystem.