Ethereum could transition into a fully zero-knowledge proof (ZK)-based protocol within three to five years, according to Consensys CEO Joseph Lubin. The move would strengthen the network’s base layer while improving coordination with its scaling systems, known as Layer 2s.
Lubin pointed to the “Lean Ethereum” initiative, led by Ethereum Foundation researcher Justin Drake, which aims to simplify the core network and push throughput beyond 10,000 transactions per second using advanced ZK cryptography. The roadmap also includes privacy-preserving features and quantum-resistant security tools.
Strategy shifts back toward the main chain
Ethereum’s long-standing rollup-centric approach, designed to improve scalability through secondary networks, is now being reassessed. Creator Vitalik Buterin has shifted focus toward enhancing efficiency directly on the main blockchain while maintaining its security guarantees.
Layer 2 networks are increasingly viewed as experimental environments where new cryptographic methods and scaling techniques can be tested before reaching the base layer. Several of these networks already support real-time ZK verification, a capability that could eventually enable Ethereum to run on a unified system supported by multiple trusted proof providers.
Fragmentation challenges drive convergence push
The expansion of Layer 2 ecosystems significantly boosted activity but also fragmented liquidity and user engagement. By late 2024, the top 10 Layer 2 networks handled around 15 million daily transactions, far exceeding the mainnet’s roughly 1.2 million.
However, this growth came with trade-offs. Revenue across Layer 2 networks fell 53% in 2025 to $129.17 million, while security payments to the main chain dropped to under 10% of their revenue. Token performance for several of these networks was also weak, with some assets declining between 50% and 80% from launch levels.
Lubin said this fragmentation was part of a deliberate “divergence phase,” allowing components of the ecosystem to evolve independently before being reintegrated into a more unified system.
ZK integration seen as key to unifying Ethereum
The next phase, described as “convergence,” centers on tighter integration between the base layer and secondary networks. A core element is embedding ZK proofs directly into Ethereum’s foundation through proposals such as Optional Execution Proofs.
This approach would allow validators to confirm transactions using cryptographic proofs instead of re-executing them, reducing hardware demands and accelerating validation. It also aims to eliminate reliance on complex cross-chain bridges by enabling seamless movement of assets across networks.
Projects like Linea and Gnosis are already applying ZK technology to connect transactions across separate environments without bridges, potentially consolidating liquidity across Ethereum-based platforms. Consensys is also integrating ZK capabilities into its Besu framework to better link private enterprise networks with public blockchain infrastructure.
2026 roadmap targets scalability and security
Ethereum’s updated roadmap highlights renewed focus on base-layer scaling. Planned upgrades include raising the gas limit above 100 million and deploying improvements such as Glamsterdam and Hegota to increase transaction efficiency.
At the same time, the network is prioritizing long-term security and privacy. Dedicated efforts are underway to implement quantum-resistant cryptography, while ZK-based privacy tools are expected to expand Ethereum’s use cases, particularly for applications requiring data confidentiality.
Buterin’s recent reassessment underscores the changing role of Layer 2 networks. As the main chain’s capabilities grow, secondary networks may need to offer more specialized features—such as enhanced privacy or custom computation—to remain competitive.
The broader goal is to create a unified architecture capable of delivering near-unlimited capacity while maintaining Ethereum’s core principles of decentralization and security.
To dive deeper into Ethereum’s evolution and ZK scaling, explore our guide on ZK rollups and their role in Layer 2 networks.
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