Ethereum to let validators verify small ZK proofs in 2026 rollout to enable immediate Layer‑1 scaling (target ~10,000 TPS); opt‑in phase in 2026, mandatory by 2027

first published 2025-12-26T13:00:00Z

Ethereum is planning a staged transition (Phase 0 current, Phase 1 in 2026 with ~10% validator opt‑in, Phase 2 expected 2027 mandatory) that will allow validators to check small zero‑knowledge proofs instead of reexecuting transactions. Key protocol work includes Lean Execution, the Glamsterdam (ePBS) upgrade to remove delayed‑execution penalties, and ongoing zkEVM and proving‑system development with falling hardware requirements. The change aims to enable immediate Layer‑1 throughput increases (eventual target ~10,000 TPS) while keeping validation cheap enough for home devices. Interoperability work (Ethereum Interoperability Layer, ZKsync’s Atlas/Gateway) targets fast, trustless cross‑L2 and L1↔L2 transfers. Debates remain over EVM→RISC‑V and prover decentralization vs validator roles.

AI Analysis

Article reports concrete protocol changes (validators verifying ZK proofs instead of reexecution), a staged timeline (2026 opt‑in ~10%, 2027 mandatory), an explicit throughput target (~10,000 TPS), and interoperability upgrades (EIL, ZKsync Atlas/Gateway). These facts support a positive long‑term outlook but are multi‑year and staged, limiting immediate trading impact.

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