zkEVM Computation

Definition ∞ zkEVM computation refers to running operations compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) within a zero-knowledge proof system. A zkEVM is a virtual machine that can execute smart contract code and generate zero-knowledge proofs for the correctness of those executions. This allows for verifiable computation of Ethereum transactions off-chain, significantly enhancing scalability and reducing transaction costs on the mainnet. The system proves that a given EVM state transition is valid without needing to re-execute all transactions on the main chain.
Context ∞ zkEVM computation is a major area of innovation and development in the Ethereum ecosystem, holding the promise of massive scalability improvements for decentralized applications. Multiple projects are actively building and refining different types of zkEVMs, each with varying degrees of EVM compatibility and proof generation efficiency. A key discussion revolves around achieving full EVM equivalence while maintaining optimal prover performance and low proof sizes. The future of Ethereum scaling heavily relies on the successful deployment and adoption of robust zkEVM solutions.