Ethereum’s layer-2 solution Starknet has launched a non-binding poll to determine whether STRK token holders want to investigate transitioning Starknet into an independent, post-quantum layer-1 blockchain.
Three options in governance poll
Starting Thursday, Starknet invited the community to take part in a seven-day vote that offers three choices: support additional research into a layer-1 transition, oppose the move, or adopt a neutral stance until more details surface. Voting concludes on October 22, and the results will be published afterward.
A “Yes” outcome would not authorize a direct transition. Instead, it would prompt further research and discussion, leading to subsequent proposals and more formal governance votes. No definite timeline for potentially becoming a layer-1 chain has been established.
Motivation for quantum resistance
StarkWare, the developer behind Starknet, stated that shifting to an independent blockchain could give the network flexibility to implement quantum-resistant technologies ahead of Ethereum’s pace. Currently, Starknet is reliant on Ethereum’s base infrastructure for essential services such as its bridge and data availability. StarkWare has highlighted these features as continuing points of dependency that could delay the adoption of strong quantum-resistant protection.
Eli Ben-Sasson, CEO of StarkWare, emphasized the urgency around strengthening cryptographic protections, stating:
“Quantum-proofing crypto is urgent, so we must move at lightning speed,” said Ben-Sasson, in contrast to what he described as slower progress in Ethereum and Bitcoin networks.
Ben-Sasson, along with the Starknet team, alluded to this initiative in X posts earlier in October, outlining a vision for Starknet to become “the first fully quantum-resistant network” by 2027.
Mini dictionary: StarkWare is the zero-knowledge cryptography company responsible for developing and maintaining Starknet, a scaling network built on Ethereum aimed at increasing throughput and reducing transaction costs using advanced proofs like STARKs.
Quantum-resistance roadmaps
In June, StarkWare presented a three-step plan to enhance the quantum resistance of Starknet. The roadmap details upgrades to cryptographic signatures, migration of smart contracts, and stronger security for infrastructure still connected to Ethereum. The intention is to gradually minimize reliance on Ethereum for critical components that could be vulnerable in a quantum computing scenario.
Meanwhile, in March, Ethereum core developers set up a dedicated post-quantum cryptography team. This group aims to deliver fundamental, protocol-level protections against quantum threats by 2029, focusing on a longer-term timeline.
| Project | Quantum-resistance goal | Expected timeline |
|---|---|---|
| Starknet | First fully quantum-resistant network | By 2027 (proposed) |
| Ethereum | Initial protocol-level protections | By 2029 (planned) |
This proposed transition marks the latest governance initiative for Starknet as it seeks to advance beyond current cryptographic standards, while still relying on community consent for any substantial platform changes.
