What is ZK-Rollup?
A zero-knowledge rollup batches transactions off-chain and posts a succinct cryptographic proof (typically a zk-SNARK or zk-STARK) to Layer 1 that proves the batch is valid. ZK-rollups finalize quickly and have no fraud-proof window.
Why ZK-Rollup matters
Understanding ZK-Rollup is part of building a solid mental model of how Bitcoin, blockchain and Web3 systems actually work. Concepts in the Concepts category sit at the foundation of the broader stack — get them right and the rest is far easier.
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Related terms
- Rollup — An L2 that posts transaction data to L1 for security.
- Zero-Knowledge Proof — Proving you know something without revealing what it is.
- Layer 2 (L2) — A scaling network that settles to a Layer 1.
More concepts terms
- Decentralization — Distributing control across many independent participants.
- Atomic Swap — Trustless cross-chain trade using hash time-locked contracts.
- Bridge — A protocol that moves assets or messages between chains.
- Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT) — A system that works even when some nodes lie or fail.
- Staking — Locking tokens to secure a network and earn rewards.
- Validator — A node that proposes and attests to blocks in PoS.
- Layer 1 (L1) — A base blockchain network with its own consensus.
- Optimistic Rollup — A rollup that assumes validity, with a fraud-proof challenge window.
Keep exploring
Continue with the full blockchain glossary — 136 terms in total — or read the developer blog and FAQ for deeper context.