CoinDesk
Gemini replaced Zebra with Zakura to run its Zcash systems, cutting the time to catch up with the network from close to a day to just over six hours. The switch comes ahead of NU7, a planned upgrade that would shorten Zcash block times from 75 seconds to 25 seconds. Developers are targeting Nov. 5 for mainnet activation.
Why it matters
Exchanges operate their own computers to follow each listed cryptocurrency’s network. Before Gemini credits a ZEC deposit, its system must find and verify the transaction. If that system falls behind or crashes, exchanges typically pause deposits and withdrawals until it catches up. Faster recovery can therefore help reduce the time customers wait for access to funds during a disruption.
Zakura developers reported a separate test in which it synced in four hours and 20 minutes, compared with nearly 21 hours for Zebra. They also say a saved copy of recent network data made a replacement computer’s sync about 680 times faster than starting from scratch. Those developer tests are distinct from Gemini’s deployment result.
Market impact
NU7 would require network computers to receive and check new blocks three times as often. Gemini has not published a test showing how Zakura performs under that faster schedule. The upgrade is scheduled to reach Zcash’s test network on Oct. 6, with developers planning to decide on the Nov. 5 mainnet activation after reviewing the results.
For ZEC traders, the practical focus is whether exchanges can keep deposits and withdrawals operating reliably as network demands change. Gemini’s software switch improves its reported catch-up time, but performance under NU7 remains an open operational test.
Frequently asked questions
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How much faster did Gemini’s Zcash sync become with Zakura?
Gemini said Zakura caught up with the network in just over six hours in its deployments, compared with close to a day for Zebra.
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What change would NU7 make to Zcash block times?
NU7 would reduce the time between Zcash blocks from 75 seconds to 25 seconds, requiring network computers to process new blocks three times as often.
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Why can an exchange’s Zcash node affect customer deposits?
Gemini must find and verify a ZEC transaction before crediting a deposit. If its system falls behind, deposits and withdrawals may be paused until it catches up.
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Has Gemini tested Zakura under NU7’s faster block schedule?
Gemini has not published a test showing how Zakura performs under NU7’s faster schedule.
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When is Zcash’s NU7 mainnet activation targeted?
Developers are targeting Nov. 5 for mainnet activation. The upgrade is scheduled to reach Zcash’s test network on Oct. 6, and developers plan to review results before deciding on activation.
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