Ethereum’s growing adoption in DeFi (Decentralized Finance) and NFTs has led to network congestion, slow transactions, and high gas fees. Layer-2 solutions like zkSync have been developed to address these challenges, using zero-knowledge rollups (zk-rollups) to enable faster and cheaper transactions while maintaining security.
This guide covers:
- What zkSync is and how it works
- Comparison between zkSync and optimistic rollups
- zkSync airdrop eligibility and distribution
- The role of the ZK token in governance
- zkSync bridging, wallets, and ecosystem projects
What is zkSync?
zkSync is a Layer-2 scaling solution for Ethereum that processes transactions off-chain using zk-rollups while ensuring security through zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs).
Key features of zkSync:
- zk-rollups bundle multiple transactions and submit them as a single proof to Ethereum.
- ZKPs verify transaction validity while keeping details private.
- Transactions on zkSync Era are cheaper and settled instantly compared to Ethereum mainnet.
zkSync functions as an express lane for Ethereum transactions. Instead of processing each transaction individually, zkSync groups multiple transactions together, reducing fees and congestion.
How Does zkSync Work?
zkSync operates in three main steps:
- Aggregating Transactions
- Instead of executing transactions individually on Ethereum, zkSync batches multiple transactions into a single proof, significantly reducing network congestion and gas fees.
- Using Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs)
- Once transactions are batched, zkSync generates a ZKP that proves all transactions are valid without revealing sensitive information.
- Submitting Proofs to Ethereum
- The ZKP batch is then submitted to Ethereum’s mainnet for final verification. Once confirmed, all bundled transactions are recorded on the blockchain.
This process enables faster, cheaper, and more scalable transactions on Ethereum.
zkSync vs. Optimistic Rollups
zkSync competes with optimistic rollups (such as Arbitrum and Optimism). The key differences are:
FeaturezkSync (zk-rollups)Optimistic Rollups)SecurityUses ZKPs for immediate verificationAssumes transactions are valid unless challenged.Finality TimeTransactions settle instantly.Requires a 7-day challenge period before finality.Gas FeesLower due to efficient batching.Higher due to potential dispute resolutions.Fraud RiskMathematically guaranteed validity.Relies on fraud proofs, which require active monitoring.
Unlike optimistic rollups, which require a challenge period before transactions are confirmed, zkSync transactions are verified instantly using ZKPs.
ZK Token: Governance & Utility
The ZK token is the native governance token of the zkSync Era ecosystem. Holders can delegate their voting power to participate in decision-making.
- Delegation: Users must delegate ZK tokens to activate voting power.
- Voting: Delegates can vote on governance proposals.
- Control: Delegation can be changed at any time.
The ZK token was listed on Binance on June 17, 2024, under the seed tag, expanding its availability to a larger audience.
zkSync Airdrop: Eligibility & Distribution
zkSync conducted a ZK token airdrop, distributing 17.5% of the total supply to active users and contributors.
Usage-Based Airdrop Eligibility
Users had to bridge assets to zkSync Era and meet at least one of the following criteria:
- Interacted with 10+ smart contracts on zkSync.
- Used Paymasters for 5+ transactions (covered gas fees for others).
- Traded 10+ ERC-20 tokens on zkSync decentralized exchanges (DEXs).
- Provided liquidity to zkSync DeFi protocols.
- Held a Libertas Omnibus NFT during the snapshot.
- Used zkSync Lite for 3+ months before zkSync Era mainnet launch.
- Donated to Gitcoin via rounds hosted on zkSync Lite.
Contribution-Based Airdrop
zkSync also rewarded ecosystem contributors, including:
- Developers with 25+ GitHub commits.
- DeFi projects and NFT creators building on zkSync Era.
- Participants in zkSync hackathons and ZK quests.
How to Claim the zkSync Airdrop?
Users should only use the official zkSync airdrop page to avoid scams.
Steps to Claim Your Airdrop
- Check eligibility on the official zkSync website.
- Connect your wallet (e.g., MetaMask, EVM-compatible wallets).
- Delegate your ZK tokens to activate governance voting.
- Claim your tokens through the official platform.
zkSync Ecosystem: Bridges, Wallets & Projects
zkSync Bridge & Swap
- Users can bridge assets to zkSync from Ethereum.
- 1inch zkSync enables token swaps with lower fees.
zkSync Wallets
zkSync supports MetaMask, Trust Wallet, and hardware wallets such as Ledger.
- zkSync Explorer & Portfolio Tracking
- Users can monitor transactions via zkSync Scan and zkSync Era Explorer.
- zkSync Portfolio tools help track holdings.
Future of zkSync: Development and Adoption
- zkSync Ignite Program
- zkSync is funding new projects through the zkSync Ignite initiative, aimed at expanding its ecosystem.
- zkSync Quantum Resistance
- The team is exploring lattice-based cryptography to enhance security against potential quantum computing threats.
- zkSync TVL & Adoption
- With rising TVL (Total Value Locked) and backing from major investors like Hashed Capital, zkSync is establishing itself as a major Ethereum scaling solution.
Conclusion
zkSync provides a fast, secure, and cost-effective alternative for Ethereum scaling through zk-rollups. Compared to optimistic rollups, it offers instant settlement, lower gas fees, and improved security.
With the ZK token, airdrop incentives, and zkSync Ignite program, zkSync is expanding its ecosystem and adoption.