Zero-knowledge proofs – a powerful addition to blockchain
What are zero-knowledge proofs?
Zero-knowledge proof is an encoding scheme whereby one party ( the prover ) can prove the truth of specific information to another party ( the voucher ) without disclosing any extra information .
For an exemplify example of ZKP ’ second, watch the video recording below.
Despite ZKP ’ second being used to enhance blockchain ’ sulfur functionality, the protocol preceded the invention of the decentralize daybook by forty years. The method was first introduced by MIT researchers Silvio Micali, Shafi Goldwasser, and Charles Rackoff in the 1980s .
There are two chief kinds of zero-knowledge proofread – synergistic and non-interactive .
synergistic ZKP ’ s involve a series of tasks or actions that the prover must complete to convince the voucher that they have particular information. Most of the needed tasks undertaken in interactional ZKP ’ s normally involve concepts of mathematical probability .
Non-interactive ZKP ’ s require no interaction between the prover and voucher, or the confirmation can take station at a late stage. These types of ZKP ’ south require extra computers or software .
All zero-knowledge proofs include three essential prerequisites:
- Completeness: if a statement is true then the verifier can certify the prover possesses the required input.
- Soundness: the statement cannot be falsified, and the verifier cannot be convinced the prover has the required input when they do not.
- Zero-knowledge: the verifier will not be able to know any information beyond the statement being true or false. Details of the information and personal data of the other parties stay anonymous.
The pros and cons
Like all forms of engineering, zero-knowledge proofs have a image of advantages and disadvantages.
| Advantages | Disadvantages |
|---|---|
| Simplicity Does not require any complicated encryption methods. |
Limited The protocols for ZKP’s usually rely on mathematical equations and numerical answers. Any other method requires a translation. |
| Privacy Increases the privacy of users by avoiding the reveal of personal information in public blockchains. |
Requires a large amount of computing power There are around 2000 computations per ZKP transaction that each require a certain amount of time to process. |
| Security Strengthens security of information by replacing ineffective authentication methods. |
Restricted If the originator of a transaction forgets their information, all the data associated with it is lost. |
| Scalability Increases blockchain throughput and scalability. |
Vulnerability Potential vulnerability to advanced technologies like quantum computing. |
Uses of zero-knowledge proofs in blockchain
ZKP ’ s provide flexibility and choice to users who want command and exemption over their information. therefore, it makes sense that, when combined, blockchain and ZKP ’ s have multiple uses .
Private transactions (EY and Nightfall)
The many concerns around privacy and data sovereignty led consulting firm EY to release ZKP and blockchain solutions .
In 2019, EY released Nightfall, a public ZKP protocol that allows companies to preserve confidentiality while conducting private and batten transactions on public blockchains .
As part of their $ 100 million spend on blockchain-related developments, EY will be working on Starlight, a ZKP prototype compiler, that “ supports the needs of complex occupation agreements where business logic must be shared between parties at the network level but privacy from competitors besides remains critical. ”
Nightfall and Starlight both drive to allow users greater security and privacy on blockchain applications .
Messaging applications
throughout encoding has played a big character in allowing messages to be sent privately. however, traditional message applications require users to verify their identity to a waiter. With ZKP ’ south, an individual can prove their identity without releasing extra personal data .
Complex documentation
Combining ZKP ’ second and blockchain allows users to plowshare complex documents with security. ZKP ’ randomness have the potential to encrypt data in pieces, this enables users to control certain blocks and the visibility of the information contained within them, allowing some users access while restricting others.
Read more: A Few Thoughts on Cryptographic Engineering
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