Starknet Community Backs Research Into Ethereum Breakaway
Starknet voters backed research into an independent, post-quantum layer-1 blockchain, with 93.52% of voting power supporting the nonbinding proposal.
Starknet’s community has approved research into becoming an independent, post-quantum layer-1 blockchain. The network will continue operating as an Ethereum layer-2 for now.
The nonbinding governance poll closed Thursday after seven days. About 3,200 votes were recorded, the highest participation in Starknet’s governance history, according to StarkWare. The company abstained from voting, leaving the decision to the community.
The vote allows StarkWare and the Starknet Foundation to study the technical requirements for an independent network and prepare detailed proposals. The organizations have formed a working group for the research. StarkWare CEO Eli Ben-Sasson expects a draft whitepaper to be released for public review in November.
A transition would require a separate binding governance vote. Under the current proposal, STRK would remain Starknet’s native token, and no new token is planned. Existing bridges between Starknet and Ethereum would remain open.
StarkWare first raised the possibility of leaving Ethereum on Oct. 8, citing Starknet’s reliance on Ethereum for security and infrastructure. Starknet uses hash-based STARK proofs and supports programmable accounts that can use post-quantum signatures. Its bridge and data-availability systems still depend on Ethereum’s development and upgrade schedule.
The research will examine how Starknet could operate independently while preserving compatibility with Ethereum. Post-quantum systems are designed to protect cryptographic technology from future quantum computers, which could threaten some systems used by existing blockchains.
StarkWare published a three-phase quantum-resistance roadmap in June. It covers cryptographic upgrades, smart-contract migration and changes to infrastructure that depends on Ethereum. Its Quantum Hub has tested technology designed to resist future quantum attacks by processing a transaction on Starknet’s live network. The technology remains experimental and has not undergone a security audit.
Ben-Sasson has set 2027 as a target for making Starknet quantum-resistant. He considers Ethereum’s projected 2029 target too late and has warned that deadlines can slip. Any independent, post-quantum network would remain subject to a future community decision.
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