Joe Lubin: Ethereum will not have a "second foundation," and may become a fully zero-knowledge proof-based protocol within 3 to 5 years

Odaily reported that Consensys CEO Joseph Lubin stated that Ethereum is expected to develop into a fully zero-knowledge proof (ZK Proof) based protocol within the next three to five years. This will not only optimize the main chain but also enhance Ethereum’s composability with Layer 2 solutions. Lubin expressed support for the "Rollup-centric roadmap," believing that by strengthening Layer 1, introducing the "Lean Ethereum" initiative, and promoting ZK proofs, the Ethereum base layer can be significantly upgraded. Lean Ethereum aims to achieve over 10,000 transactions per second while maintaining a high degree of decentralization on the mainnet, and also supports privacy and quantum-resistant computing solutions.

On the Layer 2 front, Lubin pointed out that ZK technology has already enabled real-time proof generation on some L2 networks, with plans to extend this capability to Layer 1, ultimately transitioning to a fully ZK-based base protocol supported by multiple provers. For instance, projects like Consensys’ Linea chain and Gnosis are leveraging zero-knowledge proofs to achieve cross-network synchronized transactions, which could potentially eliminate the need for bridges and unify fragmented liquidity.

Lubin emphasized that the initial "differentiation phase" of the Rollup roadmap aims to provide experimental space for Layer 2 technology. Although it may disperse liquidity in the short term, it lays the foundation for Ethereum’s future infinite scalability and technological iteration. He believes that some L2 technologies will become systemically important components, and this exploration process is necessary.

Additionally, Lubin addressed recent personnel changes at the Ethereum Foundation (EF) and rumors of a "second foundation," stating that no second foundation will emerge. The EF will continue to focus on core protocol development, usability and scalability, and institutional partnerships, while also supporting at least three independent teams spun off from the EF to concentrate on protocol development, user experience, and institutional outreach efforts. (The Block)