Joseph Lubin: Ethereum will not have a "second foundation," nor will it become a completely zero-knowledge proof-based protocol in the next 3-5 years

According to The Block, Consensys CEO Joseph Lubin stated that Ethereum is expected to evolve into a protocol fully based on zero-knowledge proofs (ZK Proof) within the next 3 to 5 years, which will not only optimize the main chain but also enhance Ethereum's compatibility with Layer 2.

Joseph Lubin mentioned that he supports the "Rollup-centric roadmap," believing that by strengthening Layer 1, introducing the "Lean Ethereum" initiative, and promoting ZK proofs, the foundational layer of Ethereum can be significantly upgraded. Lean Ethereum aims to achieve over 10,000 transactions per second while maintaining a high level of decentralization on the mainnet, and supports privacy and quantum-resistant solutions.

Regarding Layer 2, Joseph Lubin pointed out that ZK technology has already achieved real-time proofs in some L2 networks and plans to extend this capability to Layer 1, ultimately transitioning to a fully ZK foundational protocol supported by multiple provers. For example, projects like the Linea chain developed by Consensys and Gnosis are utilizing zero-knowledge proofs to achieve cross-network synchronized transactions, potentially eliminating the need for bridging and unifying fragmented liquidity.

Joseph Lubin emphasized that the initial "differentiation phase" of the Rollup roadmap aims to provide experimental space for Layer 2 technologies. Although it may temporarily disperse liquidity, it lays the groundwork for Ethereum's future limitless scalability and technological iteration. He believes that some L2 technologies will become systemically important components, and this exploratory process is necessary.

Additionally, Joseph Lubin responded to rumors regarding recent personnel changes at the Ethereum Foundation (EF) and the "second foundation," stating that there will not be a second foundation. The EF will continue to focus on core protocol development, usability and scalability, as well as institutional collaboration, while supporting at least three independent teams to spin off from the EF, focusing on protocol, user experience, and institutional expansion efforts.