Ethereum L2 Starknet Weighs Layer-1 Transition by 2027

Ethereum scaling network Starknet is actively considering transitioning into an independent layer-1 blockchain by 2027, a move that would make it the first fully quantum-resistant network, according to information published by the project and reported by Decrypt.

StarkWare CEO Eli Ben-Sasson stated in a post on X that becoming a layer-1 network would allow Starknet to control its own security upgrades instead of relying on Ethereum. Ethereum's current roadmap targets core post-quantum infrastructure around 2029, following the formation of a dedicated post-quantum team by the Ethereum Foundation in January. Ben-Sasson noted that Starknet currently depends on Ethereum's security as a layer-2 network and needs the base chain to move faster to address potential quantum threats.

Following the announcement, Starknet's native token, STRK, traded near $0.073, marking a 20% increase over a 24-hour period. The token price is more than double its approximate $0.03 valuation in April, when StarkWare reduced its staff to focus on revenue.

Quantum Threat and Technology

Starknet's technical pitch focuses on protecting against quantum computers that could potentially compromise the elliptic-curve cryptography utilized by Bitcoin and Ethereum. Starknet utilizes cryptographic proofs based on hash functions, which scramble data into fixed fingerprints considered quantum-resistant. The network published a roadmap on June 30 detailing plans to replace remaining elliptic-curve components.

While an independent layer-1 structure would grant Starknet autonomy over its security upgrades, it would also make the network solely responsible for its own safety and development. The project's public statements have not detailed how existing applications and users would migrate in the event of a network transition.

Key facts

• Starknet is actively considering a transition from an Ethereum layer-2 to an independent layer-1 blockchain by 2027.
• StarkWare CEO Eli Ben-Sasson stated the move aims to establish the network as the first fully quantum-resistant blockchain.
• The STRK token rose 20% over 24 hours to trade near $0.073 following the announcement.
• Ethereum's roadmap currently targets core post-quantum infrastructure by around 2029.