The ZK Transformation of Ethereum and the Possibility of Returning to PoW

Ethereum is actively embracing Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZK) technology, which is gradually changing the way Ethereum operates. ZK technology is not only applied to scaling solutions but is also being integrated into the core aspects of Ethereum, including the consensus layer and data layer. This transformation is expected to significantly enhance network performance while maintaining decentralization and security.

However, the implementation of ZK technology faces a major challenge: the process of generating zero-knowledge proofs (ZKP) is very resource-intensive. To address this issue, dedicated hardware acceleration has become a necessary option. This hardware dependence raises an interesting possibility: ZK mining could become a new type of proof-of-work (PoW) mechanism.

This new mining model may coexist with the existing Proof of Stake (PoS) mechanism, forming a hybrid consensus model. In this model, validators earn rewards not only through staking but also by providing ZK proof generation capabilities for additional income. This approach could introduce new economic incentives to the Ethereum network while maintaining the advantages of PoS.

The demand for ZK hardware acceleration has spurred the emergence of several projects focused on this area. Some companies are developing Application-Specific Integrated Circuits (ASICs) and Field-Programmable Gate Arrays (FPGAs) solutions to accelerate the generation process of ZKPs. The performance of these hardware solutions may far exceed that of traditional GPUs, paving the way for the large-scale application of ZK technology.

In addition, ZK mining may bring new positive externalities. Although it still requires specialized hardware, it may be more energy-efficient than traditional PoW mining because it focuses on generating valid proofs to verify transactions rather than solving irrelevant mathematical problems.

With the development of technology, we may see a trend of AI and ZK computing power sharing. This could lead to the emergence of comprehensive computing service platforms that support the computational needs of both AI and ZK tasks. This integration may open up new avenues for the efficient use of computing resources.

Overall, the ZK transformation process of Ethereum is driving the network towards a more efficient and scalable direction. The development of ZK hardware acceleration may introduce new economic models and even change the fundamental operation of Ethereum. As this field continues to evolve, we have reason to be optimistic about the future of ZK technology in the blockchain ecosystem.