Starknet is considering a transition from a layer 2 solution to a layer 1 network. According to Eli Ben-Sasson, CEO of StarkWare, this shift would enable the project to manage its security upgrade timeline independently, rather than relying on Ethereum's development schedule.
The primary motivation for this potential change is the need to address emerging threats from quantum computing and artificial intelligence. Ben-Sasson noted that rapid mathematical advancements driven by AI require blockchain networks to adapt their security measures more quickly.
Starknet aims to achieve quantum resistance by 2027. This timeline is faster than the current target for Ethereum, which expects to reach full layer 1 quantum resistance by the end of 2029. Bitcoin has not yet established a comparable goal for quantum security.
The network already utilizes ZK-STARKs and supports cryptographic upgrades to prepare for future challenges. These technologies are central to the platform's roadmap for migrating toward post-quantum security and maintaining agility in the face of evolving technological threats.
