Starknet is initiating a vote on the potential exit from Ethereum L2 to become an independent blockchain due to quantum risks.
This Ethereum Layer-2 network is seeking input from STRK holders on whether to explore becoming an independent, post-quantum Layer-1 blockchain.
On Thursday, Starknet launched a seven-day vote with three options: support further research, oppose, or remain neutral until more information is available. The vote will conclude on October 22, and the results will be announced afterward.
A "Yes" vote indicates support for further research only and does not authorize migration. Additional proposals and governance votes will be required, and no timeline for becoming an L1 has been announced yet.
StarkWare, the developer of Starknet, stated that this move could enable the network to advance quantum resistance independently of Ethereum's upgrade timeline. Starknet currently relies on Ethereum for infrastructure, including bridges and data availability; StarkWare considers these to still be quantum security dependencies.
StarkWare CEO Eli Ben-Sasson told Cointelegraph: “Quantum protection for cryptocurrencies is urgent, so we must move at lightning speed.” He contrasted this proposal with what he described as the slower progress of Ethereum and Bitcoin.
Ben-Sasson and Starknet both hinted at the proposal on October 8 via X posts, describing it as an effort to become the "first fully quantum-resistant network" by 2027.
In June this year, StarkWare announced a three-phase quantum-resistant roadmap for Starknet, covering signature upgrades, smart contract migration, and Ethereum-dependent infrastructure.
In March of this year, Ethereum developers formed a dedicated post-quantum team with the goal of introducing initial protocol-level protections by 2029.
Related: Starknet launches wallet privacy features for DeFi activities