TLDR
- Vitalik Buterin proposed a new zk-proof system that uses multiple provers and retry loops to improve Ethereum’s efficiency.
- Charles Hoskinson criticized the proposal by calling it unrealistic and vulnerable to network attacks and hardware failures.
- The debate expanded into a broader discussion about Ethereum’s governance and dependence on Layer-2 solutions.
- Hoskinson argued that Ethereum’s retry model is open to Sybil attacks, which could overwhelm the system with fake provers.
- Buterin introduced a Layer-Zero upgrade that could reduce zk-proof sizes and boost Ethereum’s transaction throughput.
A technical exchange between Vitalik Buterin and Charles Hoskinson reignited debate over Ethereum’s zk-proof model and blockchain architecture. The Ethereum co-founder proposed a zk workload distribution method, sparking sharp criticism from the Cardano founder. The conversation quickly escalated into a deeper critique of Ethereum’s Layer-2 strategy and foundational governance.
Ethereum Faces Criticism Over zk-Proof Model
Vitalik Buterin outlined a zk-proof system using multiple provers with retry mechanisms for faster proof generation and verification. He claimed the model could function with logarithmic star complexity, ensuring near-instant retries and efficient load distribution. However, Charles Hoskinson challenged the practicality, citing infrastructure limitations and attack vectors.
Hoskinson stated that the retry loop fails under real-world conditions, particularly with cloud instability and hardware limitations. He warned that provers could exploit retry cycles through Sybil attacks, compromising Ethereum’s reliability. In addition, he highlighted how the system could trigger self-inflicted bandwidth and computational overloads.
Buterin defended the idea as theoretical and aimed at future optimization, but the criticism raised broader questions. Ethereum’s growing reliance on complex zero-knowledge systems remains under scrutiny, especially amid concerns of decentralization risks. The community continues to assess whether Ethereum’s technical direction matches its core philosophy.
A fun math aside, on the idea of splitting a large zk proving workload between multiple provers.
Suppose you have N provers, and you have a proving workload that you split into N parts (so, one part per prover). You require provers to pre-register, but registration is…
— vitalik.eth (@VitalikButerin) May 21, 2025
Cardano Challenges Ethereum’s Architectural Path
Hoskinson used the debate to contrast Ethereum’s roadmap with Cardano’s governance and execution model. He emphasized Cardano’s measured approach, suggesting Ethereum’s zkEVM dependency exposes it to long-term performance and stability risks. He argued that Ethereum prioritizes speed over sustainability, weakening the protocol’s long-term resilience.
@VitalikButerin I’ll bite. Your log*(N) retry model stumbles on real-world constraints. Open registration lets an attacker spin up thousands of provers at near zero cost, turning your 20 % failure rate into an adversarial control lever that can knock out any shard on demand.…
— Charles Hoskinson (@IOHK_Charles) May 22, 2025
In a previous statement, Hoskinson called Ethereum’s governance overly centralized and too dependent on its founding leadership. He pointed to Cardano’s Voltaire governance as a more balanced solution, enabling protocol upgrades without single-entity control. That model continues to serve as the foundation for Cardano’s evolving ecosystem.
Moreover, he argued that Ethereum’s multi-layer setup divides value and utility, creating fragmented user experiences. He cautioned that Layer-2 protocols may reduce Ethereum’s base-layer significance, especially if integrations fail to unify standards. This position underscores his broader skepticism toward Ethereum’s upgrade trajectory and architecture.
Ethereum Bets on zkVM and Layer-Zero Upgrade
Vitalik Buterin proposed a major Ethereum upgrade based on zkVM and RISC-V architecture in response to technical concerns. The initiative aims to replace the Ethereum Virtual Machine, slash zk-proof sizes and reduce computational cycles. Early estimates suggest a 30x throughput boost driven by GPU acceleration and streamlined proof logic.
This Layer-Zero upgrade intends to reduce dependency on external rollups like Arbitrum and Optimism. Buterin’s plan seeks to restore efficiency at the base layer, ensuring Ethereum remains competitive. However, questions remain about adoption timelines and compatibility with the current Ethereum infrastructure.
While Buterin continues pushing zk-based optimizations, Cardano maintains its stance against excessive Layer-2 reliance. Hoskinson reiterated concerns that Ethereum may lose cohesion if it does not anchor its future at the protocol level. The ongoing debate signals a wider rift in the two platforms’ blockchain design philosophy.
