Starknet opens a vote on a possible exit of Ethereum L2 over quantum risks

Starknet asks STRK holders to consider becoming a standalone Layer-1 blockchain to reduce its dependence on Ethereum's post-quantum security upgrade timeline.

Starknet is asking STRK holders to consider becoming an independent Layer-1 blockchain to reduce their dependence on Ethereum's quantum security upgrade timeline.

Ethereum's Layer 2 network StarkNet has opened a non-binding vote asking STRK holders whether they should consider becoming an independent, post-quantum Layer 1 blockchain.

On Thursday, Starknet opened a seven-day poll offering three options: support more research, oppose it, or remain neutral pending more information. Voting ends on October 22 and the results will be published after that.

A "yes" vote indicates support for further research, not permission. Further proposals and government votes are required, and no timetable has been announced for becoming L1.

StarkWare, the developer of Starknet, said the move could allow the network to pursue quantum-resistant security without depending on Ethereum's upgrade program. Starknet currently relies on Ethereum for infrastructure, including bridging and data availability, which StarkWare identifies as remaining quantum security dependencies.

“Anti-quantum cryptography is essential, so we need to move lightning fast,” StarkWare CEO Eli Ben Sassoon told Cointelegraph.

Ben Sassoon and Starknett both hinted at the proposal in separate X posts on October 8, calling it a move to become "the first fully quantum-resistant network" by 2027.

In June, StarkWare unveiled a three-phase quantum resistance roadmap for Starknet, covering signature upgrades, smart contract transfers, and Ethereum-dependent infrastructure.

In March, Ethereum developers created a dedicated post-quantum team with the goal of introducing basic protocol-level protections by 2029.