Non-interactive zero-knowledge proofs explained: CRS and trusted setups
Thread256 words
Explains ZK proofs and the non-interactive variant that relies on a common reference string from a trusted setup ceremony. Covers the security, efficiency and CRS size trade-off and the Fiat-Shamir transformation.
Key claims
NIZKPs rely on a CRS generated in a trusted setup
CRS should be small and secure
0/ What are Non-Interactive Zero-Knowledge Proofs (NIZKPs)? 馃鈥嶁檪锔忊湪
(0/10) 馃У馃憞
1/ First of all, what are zero knowledge proofs (ZKPs) in general?
ZKPs are a #cryptographic technique that allow individuals or entities to prove to another that a statement is true, without revealing any information beyond the validity of the statement.
2/ One variant of ZKPs are non-interactive zero-knowledge proofs (NIZKPs), which don't require interaction between the certifier and verifier.
3/ They rely on a common reference string (CRS), which is generated in a trusted setup ceremony that is publicly verifiable.
4/ The CRS serves as the basis for the NIZKPs and allows for the verification of statements without any interaction.
5/ However, the reliance on a CRS for NIZKPs raises concerns about the security of the system, as the CRS must be generated in a trusted setup ceremony to ensure the integrity of the system.
6/ The trusted setup ceremony involves generating a CRS that consists of cryptographic parameters used to generate the NIZKPs used in the system.
7/ One challenge in the design of NIZKPs is finding the balance between security, efficiency, and the size of the CRS.
8/ Ideally, the CRS should be small and secure. Techniques like universal hash functions and the Fiat-Shamir transformation have been proposed to achieve this balance.
9/ Despite the challenges and limitations, NIZKPs remain an active area of research and are expected to play a significant role in the #blockchain ecosystem in the coming years.
10/ Stay tuned for follow-up threads investigating zk-proofs in more depth! 馃鈥嶁檪锔忊湪