What is Starknet?
Starknet is a permissionless Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum using STARK zero-knowledge proofs (ZK-rollup). Developed by StarkWare, it enables massive computation off-chain while maintaining Ethereum's security.
Starknet uses Cairo, its proprietary programming language, for smart contracts. The platform focuses on computational integrity, allowing complex applications that would be prohibitively expensive on Ethereum L1.
STRK is the native token used for paying transaction fees on Starknet, staking for network security, and governance over protocol parameters and upgrades.
STRK Tokenomics
STRK has a total supply of 10 billion tokens. Initial distribution included an airdrop to early users, allocations to StarkWare contributors, and foundation reserves. STRK is used for gas fees on the network.
STRK Historical Price Performance
STRK launched in February 2024 with a large airdrop to Starknet users. It reached $3.71 at launch before declining as airdrop recipients sold. Starknet continues development of its ZK-rollup technology for Ethereum scaling.
Frequently Asked Questions
A ZK-rollup processes transactions off-chain and posts cryptographic proofs to Ethereum. These proofs guarantee computation correctness without requiring Ethereum to re-execute transactions.
Cairo is Starknet's programming language designed for writing provable programs. It enables smart contracts that can generate STARK proofs of correct execution.
Starknet uses zero-knowledge proofs (validity proofs) while Optimism and Arbitrum use fraud proofs (optimistic rollups). ZK-rollups have faster finality but higher computational overhead.
Starknet supports DeFi, gaming, NFTs, and any complex computation. Its STARK proofs enable use cases like on-chain gaming and AI verification that are too expensive on other L2s.
What is a ZK-rollup?
A ZK-rollup processes transactions off-chain and posts cryptographic proofs to Ethereum. These proofs guarantee computation correctness without requiring Ethereum to re-execute transactions.
What is Cairo?
Cairo is Starknet's programming language designed for writing provable programs. It enables smart contracts that can generate STARK proofs of correct execution.
How is Starknet different from Optimism or Arbitrum?
Starknet uses zero-knowledge proofs (validity proofs) while Optimism and Arbitrum use fraud proofs (optimistic rollups). ZK-rollups have faster finality but higher computational overhead.
What can you build on Starknet?
Starknet supports DeFi, gaming, NFTs, and any complex computation. Its STARK proofs enable use cases like on-chain gaming and AI verification that are too expensive on other L2s.
Risk Warning
Cryptocurrency prices are highly volatile and can change rapidly. The information on this site is provided for informational purposes only and does not constitute financial, investment, or trading advice.