StarkWare Successfully Verifies First Zero-Knowledge Proof on Bitcoin Testnet

StarkWare’s new STARK verifier, leveraging OP_CAT, paves the way for ZK-powered Layer 2 scaling on Bitcoin’s network.

In a significant development for Bitcoin scaling, blockchain developer StarkWare has verified the first zero-knowledge proof on Bitcoin’s Signet test network. This achievement, achieved using their novel STARK verifier, showcases the potential of the OP_CAT technical proposal for Bitcoin.

The initial verification involved a mathematical problem, but StarkWare aims to broaden its capabilities to encompass a wider range of computations. This aligns with StarkWare’s CEO Eli Ben-Sasson’s vision of unlocking Bitcoin’s potential through zero-knowledge technology.

StarkWare, a key contributor to Ethereum’s Layer 2 scaling solution Starknet, has been exploring ZK-scaling for Bitcoin since June. OP_CAT provides the necessary framework for STARK scaling on Bitcoin’s network, crucially without requiring a separate chain or a hard fork.

Built in collaboration with L2 Iterative, StarkWare’s STARK verifier leverages OP_CAT to enable ZK-based Layer 2 solutions on Bitcoin, facilitating faster and more scalable transactions.

OP_CAT, a technical proposal aiming to introduce smart contract functionality to Bitcoin, could unlock various use cases: secure vaults, automated payments, time-locked transfers, and complex financial instruments. Originally included in Bitcoin’s codebase, OP_CAT was disabled by Satoshi Nakamoto due to potential script vulnerabilities. The Bitcoin community continues to debate its implementation on the mainnet.

StarkWare strongly advocates for OP_CAT’s approval, highlighting its benefits for both Bitcoin and the broader blockchain ecosystem.

Bitcoin’s Signet network, similar to other testnets, provides a safe environment for developers to test new features before deploying them on the mainnet. However, Signet offers additional benefits of centralized coordination and enhanced protection against malicious activities.

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