Zero-Knowledge Proof

A zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) is a cryptographic method allowing one party to prove to another that a statement is true without revealing any additional information beyond the statement’s validity.

What is a Zero-Knowledge Proof?

A zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) is a cryptographic technique used in blockchain systems like Ethereum to verify the truth of a statement or transaction without disclosing any underlying data. It enables one party (the prover) to convince another (the verifier) that a computation is correct or a condition is met while keeping sensitive details private. ZKPs are integral to privacy-focused blockchains and layer-2 scaling solutions, balancing confidentiality with trustless verification.

Imagine you want to enter a bar that requires you to be over 21, but you don’t want to show your ID with your exact birthdate or address. With a zero-knowledge proof, you could use a digital card that proves you’re over 21 to the bouncer without revealing any other personal details. In DeFi, this is like proving you have enough ETH to make a trade on a platform like zkSync without disclosing your wallet balance or transaction history, ensuring privacy while still satisfying the platform’s rules.