TheBlock
Starknet holders began a seven-day vote on whether the network should explore becoming an independent Layer 1, giving it greater control over security as quantum-computing risks loom. At the time of writing, 177.6 million STRK had been cast, with 99.91% supporting “Yes” in the Snapshot poll. A passing vote would lead to more detailed proposals and additional polls, not an immediate migration.
Why it matters
StarkWare has argued that Starknet’s reliance on Ethereum leaves parts of its quantum-security readiness dependent on Ethereum’s ability to become quantum-safe quickly enough. CEO Eli Ben-Sasson has said chains need suitable cryptography, the ability to upgrade it and, in Starknet’s case, a possible move to Layer 1.
Starknet already uses hash-based STARK proofs, and its accounts can adopt post-quantum signatures without a protocol upgrade. But its bridge to Ethereum and data-availability arrangements remain tied to Ethereum infrastructure and its upgrade timeline. StarkWare says Starknet has no timeline for that transition, while the parts under its control could become quantum-resistant soon.
Market impact
A “No” vote would leave Starknet’s post-quantum work on its existing Layer 2 path, StarkWare said. A “Yes” would open a governance process for a larger architectural decision, with further proposals and polls still to come.
The security debate arrives alongside StarkWare’s introduction of Shadow Accounts, an STRK20 privacy feature. It uses persistent pseudonymous identities so decentralized-application users can maintain positions without publicly linking activity to their main wallets. The vote and privacy launch put security, privacy and Starknet’s relationship with Ethereum at the center of the network’s next steps.
Frequently asked questions
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What would a “Yes” vote authorize for Starknet?
It would lead to more detailed proposals and additional polls about exploring an independent Layer 1. It would not immediately move Starknet off its current Layer 2 path.
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How much support did the Starknet proposal have?
At the time of writing, 177.6 million STRK had been cast in the Snapshot poll, with 99.91% supporting “Yes.”
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Why does Starknet link quantum readiness to becoming a Layer 1?
StarkWare says Starknet’s reliance on Ethereum leaves its bridge and data-availability arrangements dependent on Ethereum infrastructure and its upgrade timeline.
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What post-quantum protections does Starknet already have?
Starknet uses hash-based STARK proofs, and its accounts can adopt post-quantum signatures without a protocol upgrade.
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What are StarkWare’s Shadow Accounts?
Shadow Accounts are an STRK20 privacy feature using persistent pseudonymous identities, allowing decentralized-application users to maintain positions without publicly linking activity to their main wallets.
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