Polygon Labs, the team behind Polygon, has unveiled a proposal to upgrade its flagship Proof-of-Stake (PoS) sidechain. The proposed upgrade, known as “zkEVM Validium,” aims to integrate zero-knowledge scaling technology called validium to enhance the security and performance of the Polygon network. This article explores the details of the upgrade, its significance for Polygon 2.0, and the potential impact on the blockchain ecosystem.

The Polygon 2.0 Vision:

Polygon Labs’ proposal aligns the existing Polygon PoS chain with the future Polygon 2.0. By leveraging validium, a specific type of zero-knowledge scaling technology, the upgrade aims to enhance security and performance while maintaining the network’s low fees. It is important to note that this proposed upgrade is distinct from the team’s previously rolled out zkEVM technology in March 2023.

Understanding zkEVM Validium:

Sandeep Nailwal, the co-founder of Polygon, clarified that the proposed upgrade involves transforming the Polygon PoS chain into a “zkEVM Validium” chain. This means that data available for applications will reside with the validators, unlike the existing zkEVM rollup, where data availability is directly on Ethereum. The upgrade aims to combine the benefits of Validium’s enhanced security and performance with the existing low fees of the Polygon network.

Coexistence in the Polygon Ecosystem:

Polygon Labs envisions a coexistence of the upgraded Polygon PoS and the existing zkEVM within the Polygon ecosystem. If the proposal gains community approval, the upgrade could be implemented on the mainnet by the end of 2024. This would mark a significant milestone as the first instance of an existing chain integrating ZK proofs and transitioning to become an L2 (Layer 2) solution.

Polygon’s Growth and Influence:

Polygon is one of the most widely used blockchains in the crypto sector, with a significant volume of daily transactions. Additionally, it holds over $2 billion in on-chain assets, highlighting its growing influence within the blockchain industry. The proposed upgrade further reinforces Polygon’s commitment to continuous innovation and scalable solutions.

Polygon Labs’ proposal for the “zkEVM Validium” upgrade to the Polygon PoS chain signifies a significant step toward realizing the Polygon 2.0 vision. By integrating Validium’s zero-knowledge scaling technology, the upgrade aims to enhance the network’s security and performance while maintaining its low fees. If approved, this upgrade would be a pioneering move for an existing chain to adopt ZK proofs and transition to an L2 solution. As Polygon continues to grow and cement its position within the blockchain industry, the proposed upgrade holds the potential to further strengthen its ecosystem and deliver scalable solutions for users and developers alike.