Starknet helps Ethereum handle more activity by moving most of the transaction processing away from the main Ethereum blockchain. Instead of recording every step on Ethereum, it bundles many transactions together, checks that they are valid using zero-knowledge proofs, and then posts a summary back to Ethereum for final verification. This method makes it much faster and cheaper to use, while still relying on Ethereum’s security, trust and decentralisation.
How does Starknet work?
Starknet operates as a Layer 2 network on Ethereum, using a technology called a zk-rollup. In simple terms, a zk-rollup batches thousands of transactions together and generates a cryptographic proof that the batch is valid. This proof is then posted to Ethereum, reducing the cost and time needed to confirm each individual transaction on-chain. It’s built using Cairo, a custom programming language designed specifically for writing zero-knowledge smart contracts.
Because of this structure, developers can create complex decentralised apps (dApps) such as games, DeFi protocols, and NFTs that run faster and more efficiently than if they were hosted directly on Ethereum.
Who created Starknet?
Starknet was developed by StarkWare, an Israeli company founded in 2018 by Eli Ben-Sasson, Uri Kolodny, Michael Riabzev, and Alessandro Chiesa. Ben-Sasson is a well-known figure in the cryptography world and was part of the team that helped create zk-SNARKs, a core privacy technology used in projects like Zcash. StarkWare launched Starknet as a public good to enable broader access to scalable blockchain infrastructure.
What is STRK used for?
STRK is the native token of Starknet and plays a role in governance, staking, and network security. Token holders can vote on proposals that guide the future direction of the Starknet ecosystem. Over time, STRK is expected to be used for paying network fees and potentially rewarding participants who help validate or sequence transactions.
Why does Starknet matter?
Scalability has long been one of Ethereum’s biggest challenges. By using zero-knowledge proofs, Starknet offers a way to significantly reduce transaction costs and boost throughput without sacrificing decentralisation. This could open the door for more mainstream applications to thrive on Ethereum’s infrastructure. Its open-source approach and emphasis on developer tooling also make it a promising foundation for next-generation dApps.
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