In blockchain technology, scalability is an important factor. This is evident in some large blockchains, such as Ethereum, that face scalability challenges.

 

To solve the problem, Ethereum utilizes a layer 2 solution in its network, Polygon. Recently, Polygon launched its latest platform, Polygon zkEVM.

 

To understand what Polygon zkEVM is, its advantages, how it differs from ZkSync, its use cases, and its future, check out the full review below.

 

What is Polygon zkEVM?

 

The Ethereum network faces significant challenges regarding scalability, mainly due to limitations in the number of transactions that can be processed simultaneously and high fees per transaction.

 

Optimal scalability allows the network to increase its capacity, allowing it to process more transactions quickly and cost-efficiently.

 

Ethereum’s layer 2 network is built on its infrastructure, the Polygon, previously known as the Matic Network.

 

Polygon aims to increase Ethereum’s scalability by providing faster, cheaper, and more efficient transaction solutions.

 

So, what is the difference between Polygon and Polygon zkEVM? Although the two are related, there are important differences in the context of blockchain networks.

 

Polygon uses sidechain and plasma chain technology to speed up transactions and reduce fees within the Ethereum ecosystem.

 

On the other hand, Polygon zkEVM is one of Polygon’s scaling solutions. zkEVM stands for Zero-Knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine.

 

zkEVM is a Layer 2 layer that uses Zero Knowledge Proofs (ZK proofs) technology to improve Ethereum’s scalability while maintaining compatibility with EVM.

 

zkEVM is a breakthrough technology that fulfills three key characteristics of Web3 infrastructure: scalability, security, and compatibility with Ethereum.

 

In zkEVM, transactions are aggregated into a single transaction verified using ZK proofs, reducing fees and increasing network throughput.

 

Polygon zkEVM’s main goal is to provide a solution comparable to the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). As a result, most Ethereum smart contracts, developer tools, and wallets can function seamlessly on the Polygon zkEVM network.

 

Thus, Polygon zkEVM makes it easier for developers to create decentralized applications (DApps) and reduces adaptation barriers with other platforms.

 

Advantages of Polygon zkEVM

 

 

Several advantages of Polygon zkEVM are important to know, including the following:

 

1. Compatibility with Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)

 

The main advantage of zkEVM is its compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). Users of zkEVM can access all existing features and development tools for EVM without the need to change code or implement new features.

 

This allows developers to transition to zkEVM quickly and seamlessly without disrupting the existing development ecosystem.

 

Developers can reuse existing code and infrastructure, making it easier for them to transition their applications to zkEVM without requiring significant changes or rewrites.

 

This compatibility facilitates smooth migration and accelerates the adoption of zkEVM within the Ethereum ecosystem. In addition, Polygon zkEVM also adopts the strong security measures of Ethereum Layer 1 (L1).

 

Building on Ethereum’s strong foundation, zkEVM guarantees the integrity and trustworthiness of transactions and smart contracts executed on the platform.

 

It assures users that their assets and data are protected with the same level of security expected from Ethereum.

 

2. Increased Scalability and Throughput

 

The zkEVM uses Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZK proofs) technology to group multiple transactions together, which are verified together.

 

The use of the technology increases network throughput by allowing more transactions to be processed simultaneously and faster.

 

3. Reduced Transaction Costs

 

Another advantage of Polygon zkEVM is the implementation of zero-knowledge roll-up technology. Using ZK-rollup, developers can combine hundreds or even thousands of token transfers into a single transaction recorded on the Ethereum public blockchain.

 

The technology enables faster and more economical transactions without compromising network security.

 

Ethereum users will experience smoother transactions with lower network fees. The launch of Polygon zkEVM is expected to reduce Ethereum network fees by 90 percent.

 

4. Strong Security

 

Polygon zkEVM is built on Ethereum Layer 1 security, which has already proven reliable and secure. With such a strong security foundation, zkEVM guarantees that transactions and smart contracts are processed with high integrity and trust.

 

5. Interoperability and Bridges

 

In addition, zkEVM also features a bridge that facilitates asset transfer and communication between different blockchains.

 

Such interoperability expands the blockchain ecosystem by allowing different platforms and networks to work together efficiently.

 

6. Support from Large Companies

 

Polygon zkEVM is getting support from big companies like Meta, Reddit, and Stripe, which shows its trust and potential.

 

Such support increases confidence in zkEVM and has the potential to expand widespread adoption, which in turn can increase the value and usage of MATIC tokens.

 

Differences Between Polygon zkEVM Vs. ZkSync

 

Quoting coinmarketcap.com, zkSync Era, and Polygon zkEVM differ significantly below the surface layer despite their similarities.

 

The main difference is that ZkSync Era is compatible with EVM, while Polygon zkEVM is equivalent to EVM.

 

ZkSync Era uses its LLVM compiler, which compiles code from various popular EVM languages, such as Solidity, Vyper, and Yul, to run on their custom zkSync VM.

 

The compiler will be further developed to accept code in Rust and C++ in the future. This will allow developers to migrate from EVM smart contracts rather than rewriting code using a new language or tool.

 

On the other hand, Polygon zkEVM is closer to EVM and does not use a compiler. It accepts Solidity natively, allowing the migration of almost all Solidity code from an existing EVM chain to a new chain without rewriting code.

 

Using the Vitalik framework for different types of zkEVMs, zkSync Era is closer to a Type 4 zkEVM, while Polygon zkEVM is a Type 3 zkEVM, to evolve to a Type 2 zkEVM.

 

Regarding prover architecture, zkSync Era aims to generate proofs faster by optimizing using their custom VM, not to achieve EVM equivalence.

 

Polygon zkEVM uses a unique Proof-of-Efficiency consensus mechanism and clusters of state machines that enable greater prover efficiency.

 

Regarding data availability, ZkSync Era only publishes state differences rather than transaction inputs, providing data compression and seamless integration with zkPorter. It is based on the Volition model by StarkWare, although ZkSync has adapted it for a “strict focus on decentralization”.

 

Meanwhile, Polygon zkEVM will use a hybrid model (Validium or Volition) where validity proofs are stored on the chain, while some data is stored on or off-chain.

 

zkEVM Polygon Use Case

 

 

Quoting quicknode.com, the following are some important Polygon zkEVM use cases to know about, including:

 

1. DeFi (Decentralized Finance)

 

Borrowing Protocols, DEXs, and Yield Protocols have a safe haven on Polygon zkEVM due to fast finality times and Ethereum L1 security.

 

2. NFT and Gaming

 

Interoperability, low cost, and fast transaction finality on Polygon zkEVM enable NFTs and Gaming to thrive.

 

3. Payment

 

Polygon zkEVM provides a low-cost environment for users interested in transacting in real time. Transactions can be completed almost instantly.

 

The Future of Polygon zkEVM

 

The arrival of zkEVM is predicted to positively impact the Ethereum network by expanding capabilities and improving scalability.

 

By facilitating faster, cheaper, and more secure transactions, zkEVM could be an effective solution to Ethereum’s scalability challenges.

 

On the other hand, as the adoption of zkEVM increases, there is potential for an increase in the value and adoption of MATIC coin, the utility token used in the Polygon ecosystem. As more users embrace zkEVM, the demand for MATIC could increase.

 

Furthermore, in the future, Polygon is expected to continue to innovate and develop new features for zkEVM, including security enhancements, performance improvements, and the introduction of new features that can improve the overall functionality and usability of zkEVM.

 

Conclusion

 

In conclusion, Polygon zkEVM provides an important solution to the scalability issues faced by the Ethereum network.

 

Using Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZK proofs) technology and a transaction clustering mechanism, zkEVM enables increased network throughput, accelerated transaction finalization time, and significantly reduced transaction fees.

 

It paves the way for applications and users to access the blockchain ecosystem more efficiently and economically.

 

The main advantages of zkEVM include compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), security based on the Ethereum Layer 1 (L1) foundation, and interoperability with various blockchains.

 

In addition, zkEVM’s ability to accept Solidity code natively makes it easy to migrate applications from existing EVM chains without rewriting code.

 

Nevertheless, it is important to always be vigilant when utilizing zkEVM. While it offers many advantages, the technology is still in development and may have certain risks that need to be considered.

 

In that regard, users should stay abreast of the latest developments, understand the potential risks, and take appropriate measures to protect their assets and privacy when utilizing zkEVM.

 

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