What Is A zk-SNARK?
Zk-SNARK is a zero-knowledge proof protocol utilized by cryptographic encryption. Zk-SNARK is an acronym that stands for “Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge.”
Zk-SNARKs allow users to quickly verify proof that a computation has a certain output without revealing all of the underlying inputs[1]Vitalik Buterin – An approximate introduction to how zk-SNARKs are possible and without ever interacting with the secondary party.
How Do zk-SNARKs Work?
The basis of Zk-SNARKs was first designed in 1985 by cryptographers Silvio Micali, Shafi Goldwasser, and Charles Rackoff, although widespread adoption of these protocols came with the cryptocurrency Zcash.
The proof of certain information is facilitated through the use of complex mathematical proofs. The mathematical proof will use certain public and private information to deduce whether the output is true or false.
Using these mathematical proofs allows for something like a password or secret key to be verified without ever having to see the password or store it somewhere within the system – eliminating the possibility of it being breached.
Zk-SNARKs still record transactions on a blockchain, but only proof of the transaction. The addresses associated with the sender and receiver are encrypted, never to be seen.
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