Skip to main content

​
Scalable, Transparent, and Post-Quantum Secure Zero-Knowledge Proofs (STARKs)

This paper introduces STARKs (Scalable, Transparent Arguments of Knowledge), a form of zero-knowledge proof that addresses the limitations of previous iteration

​
Abstract

This paper introduces STARKs (Scalable, Transparent Arguments of Knowledge), a form of zero-knowledge proof that addresses the limitations of previous iterations, such as the requirement for a trusted setup and vulnerability to quantum computing attacks. STARKs offer significant improvements in computational speed and verification time, making them a preferred solution for scaling blockchain networks (specifically via ZK-Rollups). The paper describes the mathematical foundation using hash-based cryptography, which removes the need for trusted initialization and enhances transparency. This work is critical for the evolution of Layer 2 solutions, enabling high-throughput transactions with strong security guarantees in a post-quantum environment, marking a key milestone in blockchain scalability research. Authors: Eli Ben-Sasson, Iddo Bentov, Yinon Horesh, Michael Riabzev Publication: IACR ePrint Archive Publication date: 2018-01-01

​
Key findings

  • Introduced STARKs as a transparent, post-quantum secure ZK-proof method.
  • Eliminated the need for a ‘trusted setup’ required by earlier SNARKs.
  • Demonstrated high scalability for proof generation and verification.
  • Established a hash-based cryptographic alternative to elliptic curve-based proofs.

​
Citation

Eli Ben-Sasson, Iddo Bentov, Yinon Horesh, Michael Riabzev (2018). Scalable, Transparent, and Post-Quantum Secure Zero-Knowledge Proofs (STARKs). IACR ePrint Archive. https://eprint.iacr.org/2018/046
Canonical knowledge ID: research:scalable-transparent-and-post-quantum-secure-zero-knowledge-proofs-starks