Ethereum Shifts Focus From Speed to Security With New 2026 Deadline
Key Takeaways
- Ethereum Foundation sets three security milestones for zero-knowledge EVMs to be achieved by 2026.
- 128-bit provable security becomes a mandatory requirement as performance gains reveal critical vulnerabilities in existing proof systems.
- Ethereum’s shift in focus from speed to security aims to ensure the long-term sustainability of the network.
Ethereum’s New Security-Focused Approach
In a significant shift in priorities, the Ethereum Foundation has announced a new deadline of 2026 for achieving three key security milestones for zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machines (EVMs). This move marks a departure from the previous focus on speed and scalability, as the foundation acknowledges that performance gains have introduced critical vulnerabilities in existing proof systems.
The Need for 128-bit Provable Security
According to the Ethereum Foundation, the discovery of these vulnerabilities has made it clear that 128-bit provable security is now a mandatory requirement for the network’s long-term sustainability. This level of security ensures that the probability of a successful attack is extremely low, providing a robust defense against potential threats.
Security Milestones for Zero-Knowledge EVMs
The three security milestones set by the Ethereum Foundation include:
1. Milestone 1: Achieving 128-bit provable security for all zero-knowledge EVMs by the end of 2024.
2. Milestone 2: Implementing a new proof system that addresses the vulnerabilities found in existing systems by mid-2025.
3. Milestone 3: Conducting a comprehensive security audit and testing of the new proof system by the end of 2026.
Implications for the Ethereum Network
Ethereum’s shift in focus from speed to security is a strategic move that prioritizes the long-term sustainability of the network. By achieving these security milestones, the Ethereum Foundation aims to ensure that the network remains secure, reliable, and trustworthy for users and developers alike.
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