Starknet considers leaving Ethereum for a quantum-resistant Layer 1

The value of Starknet’s STRK token more than doubled across a seven-day window as developers evaluated a potential departure from Ethereum to establish an independent Layer 1 blockchain.

Data from a CoinGlass snapshot captured at 20:28 UTC on Oct. 11 positioned STRK at $0.1190, marking a 17.7% increase over 24 hours alongside a 116.7% surge across seven days.

Starknet announced on Oct. 8 that it is actively weighing a transition to L1 status, setting a target of 2027 to build what it terms the initial fully quantum-resistant network. This proposed shift would eliminate its reliance on the foundational security infrastructure of Ethereum.

Starknet weighs Ethereum separation to speed up quantum defenses

Eli Ben-Sasson, CEO of StarkWare, described the potential migration as a necessary measure against mounting fears that rapid developments in artificial intelligence and quantum computing might compromise current blockchain encryption.

Through a post on X, Ben-Sasson stressed that the dangers posed by quantum technology could materialize faster than anticipated, while advancing AI creates even greater urgency. This conversation follows recent breakthroughs in math research aided by artificial intelligence.

His commentary centers on preparing for a quantum computer capable of cracking cryptography, rather than proving that artificial intelligence can currently defeat active blockchain signatures.

The ZK-STARK proof architecture utilized by Starknet depends on hash-based cryptographic foundations instead of the elliptic-curve systems that face vulnerabilities from advanced quantum computers.

Furthermore, the network accommodates programmable accounts, enabling participants to implement alternative signature methods without requiring a network-wide overhaul.

StarkWare released a three-phase roadmap in June addressing susceptible hashing methods, older smart contracts, and Ethereum-linked dependencies. While Starknet manages the initial two phases, the final phase relies on Ethereum’s own transition timeline.

Presently, Starknet functions as an Ethereum Layer 2, handling transactions off-chain while depending on Ethereum for data availability and settlement. Consequently, its bridge setup and Ethereum-reliant data commitments remain vulnerable to cryptographic factors outside of Starknet’s direct oversight.

The Protocol cluster within the Ethereum Foundation established a December 2029 goal in September to achieve quantum resilience across Ethereum’s data, consensus, and execution layers.

Should Starknet choose independence, it would require a distinct settlement and security framework to substitute for the safeguards currently supplied by Ethereum. The Oct. 8 disclosure represents an exploration of options and a timeline for quantum resistance, rather than a finalized migration schedule.

STRK futures volume hits $3.5 billion within 24 hours

According to the same Oct. 11 CoinGlass metrics, futures open interest hovered near $258.5 million, with 24-hour futures volume climbing to $3.5 billion. Total futures liquidations over that 24-hour period reached approximately $14.8 million.

Figures from CoinMarketCap reviewed on Oct. 11 indicated a 24-hour trading volume of roughly $720 million, paired with a market cap sitting near $892 million.

This price rally arrives just ahead of an Oct. 15 token release. Tokenomist records confirm the date, and Starknet’s official vesting timeline permits the unlocking of up to 127 million STRK monthly for early backers and investors stretching through March 2027.

Based on the CoinGlass pricing from Oct. 11, the peak tranche would hold a value near $15.1 million, representing 1.27% of Starknet’s initial supply of 10 billion tokens. While this release grants transfer rights to previously locked tokens, it does not dictate the volume of recipients who will choose to sell.

?Frequently Asked Questions

01Why is Starknet considering leaving Ethereum?

Starknet is evaluating a move to an independent Layer 1 blockchain to accelerate its timeline for becoming a fully quantum-resistant network by 2027, thereby removing its dependence on Ethereum’s underlying security infrastructure.

02What is Starknet’s timeline for quantum resistance?

Starknet has targeted 2027 for its transition to a fully quantum-resistant network, whereas the Ethereum Foundation has set a December 2029 target for quantum resistance across its own layers.

03How did the STRK token react to the announcement?

Following the news, STRK more than doubled over a seven-day period, trading at $0.1190 with $3.5 billion in 24-hour futures volume according to an Oct. 11 CoinGlass snapshot.