Starknet opens vote on potential Ethereum L2 exit over quantum risks
Reported by Cointelegraph · AI-assisted summary by ChikoCorp AI News Desk
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Summary
Ethereum layer-2 network Starknet has initiated a non-binding vote among STRK token holders to decide whether it should investigate becoming an independent, post-quantum layer-1 blockchain. The vote offers three options: support further research, oppose it, or remain neutral pending more information. StarkWare, Starknet’s developer, emphasizes that such a transition could enable the network to implement quantum-resistant security independently from Ethereum’s upgrade schedule.
Why it matters
According to StarkWare, pursuing independence for quantum resistance is urgent due to security risks posed by quantum computing, and could position Starknet as the first fully quantum-resistant network by 2027. This potential shift may impact how Starknet handles infrastructure dependencies tied to Ethereum, specifically around quantum security. The source suggests this development reflects a desire for faster progress on quantum-proofing than is currently seen in Ethereum and Bitcoin protocols.
Key context
Starknet currently operates as an Ethereum-dependent layer-2 solution, relying on Ethereum’s bridge and data availability, which StarkWare identifies as quantum security weak points. The company published a three-phase quantum-resistance roadmap earlier in June, involving upgrades to signatures and smart contracts as well as infrastructure shifts. Ethereum itself formed a post-quantum team in March, aiming for initial protocol protections by 2029.
Key numbers and entities
Starknet, Ethereum, StarkWare, STRK token holders, StarkWare CEO Eli Ben-Sasson, with a vote closing date of October 22. StarkWare targets full quantum resistance for Starknet by 2027. Ethereum’s post-quantum roadmap targets protocol-level defenses by 2029.
What remains unclear
The source does not specify the technical or governance steps beyond the vote required to become an independent layer-1 chain, nor any timeline for such a transition. It also does not clarify the potential impacts on Starknet users or Ethereum’s ecosystem if the proposal advances. The nature and scale of quantum security threats driving this urgency are not detailed.