Polygon Introduces Plonky3: A Flexible Update to Zero-Knowledge Proving System
Polygon, a leading blockchain platform, has just unveiled a major update to its zero-knowledge proving system with the introduction of Plonky3. This new version is set to revolutionize the way off-chain transactions are summarized and fed back to base blockchains like Ethereum, ensuring cryptographic security in multi-layer distributed networks.
Zero-knowledge proving systems play a crucial role in guaranteeing the accuracy of transactions and the proper updating of blockchain states. Plonky3, now available as open-source software under the MIT and Apache licenses, offers developers a more flexible toolkit compared to its predecessor, Plonky2, which was released in 2022.
While Plonky2 focused on lightning-fast recursion by optimizing for hardware, Plonky3 allows developers to construct their own virtual machines using zero-knowledge cryptography. Polygon co-founder Daniel Lubarov acknowledged that Plonky2 faced performance issues and lacked the versatility needed for broader applications.
In an interview, Lubarov highlighted the advancements of Plonky3, stating that it builds on the successes of Plonky2 and provides developers with a toolkit that supports a wide range of configurations. This enables developers to optimize for speed, proof size, or a balance of the two based on their specific requirements.
When discussing the impact of Plonky3 on Ethereum and its performance compared to Plonky2, Lubarov emphasized the difficulty of making fair comparisons among zero-knowledge proving systems. However, he noted that for certain computations and configurations, Plonky3 is approximately 5–10 times faster than its predecessor.
The introduction of Plonky3 marks a significant milestone in the world of blockchain technology, offering developers enhanced flexibility and performance capabilities. As the industry continues to evolve, Polygon’s commitment to innovation and security remains at the forefront of its mission to drive the future of decentralized finance.