Starknet, a zero-knowledge layer-2 scaling solution for Ethereum, is inching closer to Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility with its upcoming Kakarot testnet, set to launch in August. It recently received backing from big names like Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin, Ledger co-founder Nicholas Bacca, and Starkware.
Currently, Starknet primarily uses its native language Cairo, which has its own advantages such as easier development, review, and maintenance of code. However, the drawback to this is its lack of EVM compatibility, a possible deterrent for some developers.
Kakarot, a new zkEVM (Zero Knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine), aims to solve this problem by making Starknet EVM compatible. It’s described as a solidity or any language engine that can be integrated into Starknet to achieve EVM compatibility.
This compatibility will be a significant advantage in the Ethereum ecosystem, as it removes a significant hurdle for developers who want to use Starknet but are hindered by the cost of rewriting and auditing their code in the EVM-compatible Solidity language. For instance, if they had already written a large project like a decentralized exchange (DEX) on an EVM chain, transitioning to Starknet could be an expensive proposition with a whole new dev team required.
Kakarot’s development began after the idea was floated at a Starkware conference in July 2022. By December, the coding for the project was complete and a fully functional execution layer was achieved – all without venture funding. It later garnered the interest and investment of Vitalik Buterin, who believes in a multiple-zkEVM approach to building out the Ethereum ecosystem.
With the release of the testnet version of Kakarot expected in August this year, developers will have the opportunity to create, scale, and deploy decentralized applications on Ethereum while leveraging the benefits of EVM compatibility. This development aims to improve the overall rollup performance in the Ethereum ecosystem and bring Starknet’s potential to a broader audience. However, it remains to be seen if this move will significantly impact the blockchain landscape and address scalability concerns in the long run.
Source: Cointelegraph
