A brief history: From zkSync 2.0 to zkSync Era

Discover zkSync Era: Advancing Ethereum's Scalability

The zkSync crypto project officially launched in June 2020. However, Matter Labs, the startup behind zkSync, had been working on layer 2 scaling solutions and zero-knowledge proofs for at least a year prior to this.

zkSync was developed by a predominantly European team, with headquarters in Berlin. The company maintains a low profile, with only a few public figures, such as CEO and co-founder Alex Gluchowski, representing it.

In February 2023, Matter Labs rebranded zkSync 2.0 to zkSync Era, marking a new phase for the project.

What is zkSync?

zkSync is a layer 2 scaling solution designed to improve the transfer of Ether and ERC-20 tokens by using zk-rollups as its foundational technology. Like Optimistic rollups, zk-rollups process large numbers of traows multiple transactions to be bundled into one, which is then verified and secured by Ethereum.

For newcomers to crypto, it’s a good idea to first learn about Ethereum before exploring zkSync: ‘Crypto Basics: What is Ethereum?’nsactions off-chain and submit cryptographic proofs to the Ethereum mainnet. This all.

The zkSync protocol focuses on boosting Ethereum’s scalability and privacy. Built on zero-knowledge (ZK) rollup technology, it enables near-unlimited scalability while ensuring strong cryptographic security through zero-knowledge-proof systems.

Additionally, zkSync introduces the zkSync score, which measures user interaction and engagement within the zkSync ecosystem. The zkSync score may influence a user's eligibility for future airdrops or rewards, making it a key metric for those looking to participate in the growing zkSync network.

What is a zero-knowledge rollup?

Rollups group off-chain transactions and transfer them to layer 1 blockchains. There are two types of rollups: Zero-Knowledge and Optimistic.

zk-rollups are the heart of the zkSync ecosystem. In simple terms, a zero-knowledge rollup is a layer 2 scalability solution that accelerates transaction validation while keeping gas fees low. This efficiency is achieved by combining both on-chain and off-chain processes.

The three main components of zk-rollups include smart contracts, provers, and verifiers. Smart contracts manage interactions between blockchains, while third-party provers generate cryptographic proofs to validate transactions. Verifiers, a set of nodes, confirm the proofs and submit them to the smart contract.

For example, zk-rollups can confirm that a transaction is valid without disclosing the actual proof, relying on zero-knowledge principles to establish trust. Despite sounding counterintuitive, zero-knowledge proofs are widely regarded as one of the most effective scaling and privacy solutions for the Ethereum ecosystem.

What is Layer 2?

Layer 2 refers to a scaling solution designed to improve the performance of the Ethereum blockchain. It addresses key issues like high gas fees and slow transaction speeds. Essentially, Layer 2 operates as a separate blockchain that extends Ethereum’s capabilities.

How does Layer 2 work? 

A Layer 2 blockchain communicates with Ethereum by sending bundles of transactions back to it, ensuring that it maintains the same level of decentralization and security as Ethereum.

The concept may seem complex because it’s hard to define Layer 2 without understanding Layer 1. In this context, Layer 1 refers to the Ethereum blockchain itself, while Layer 2 refers to the networks built on top of Ethereum to enhance scalability and efficiency.

What is zkSync's vision?

zkSync aims to scale Ethereum through its Layer 2 protocol. The team believes that achieving hyper-scalability is crucial to meet the growing demand of Web3.

Their goal is not just to boost Ethereum's throughput, but also to maintain its core principles like decentralization, self-sovereignty, and freedom, while providing significant scalability improvements.

Decentralization is a key value in the crypto world, ensuring that control is spread across many participants rather than centralized in one place.

Does zkSync have a native token?

Currently, zkSync does not have its own token. However, with the launch of its Fair Onboarding Alpha in February and the zkSync Era Mainnet Alpha, the team may introduce a token in the future.

It has been suggested that early users who engaged with the zkSync Testnet could receive tokens via an airdrop. Many crypto projects distribute tokens for free through airdrops, where small amounts of cryptocurrency are sent to participants' wallets.

To learn more about airdrops and how to prepare for the upcoming zkSync token airdrop, check out this article: ‘How to earn crypto: Earning from owning’.

zkSync Airdrop Guide: How to Participate in a Token Airdrop?
zkSync has already announced plans to launch a native token, with initial rumors predicting an airdrop in the first quarter of 2023. As of April 2023, this has yet to occur.

In the meantime, users are exploring the testnet and mainnet to increase their chances of receiving the airdrop.

To improve your eligibility for the potential airdrop, you can interact with the zkSync ecosystem and provide liquidity. Here are some suggested steps:

a. Visit the zkSync Mainnet

Go to the official zkSync website and connect your Ethereum wallet (Layer 1). By engaging with the zkSync network, such as making swaps on the mainnet, you could potentially qualify for the anticipated airdrop.

Note that participating in these activities does not guarantee an airdrop, but it may improve your chances, based on previous airdrop programs.

b. Bridge funds on the testnet using a native application

In addition to exploring the mainnet, you can try bridging funds on the zkSync testnet using native applications like Orbiter Finance. Interacting with applications built for the testnet may boost your chances of qualifying for the airdrop. Plus, you can bridge digital assets at a lower cost.

c. Experiment with the ZigZag Exchange

ZigZag Exchange allows you to trade within the zkSync network. After depositing funds into zkSync, you can begin trading on this decentralized exchange (DEX). ZigZag uses zk-rollups and offers a wide variety of trading pairs. Engaging in trades with testnet tokens might improve your chances of receiving the airdrop.

d. Mint an NFT on Mintsquare

To further increase your eligibility for the airdrop, consider minting an NFT on zkSync’s mainnet through Mintsquare. Simply upload an image, give your NFT a name, and click ‘mint’ to create your non-fungible token.