Core Idea:

Zero-Knowledge (zk) technology allows one party to prove that they know or possess certain information without revealing the information itself.

Key Components:

ZK-Proofs: Cryptographic methods enabling private verification.

ZK-SNARKs / ZK-STARKs: Popular zk systems — SNARKs are smaller and faster but require a trusted setup; STARKs are more transparent and scalable.

ZK-Rollups: Layer-2 scaling solutions that bundle (roll up) multiple transactions off-chain and post a single proof on-chain, ensuring both privacy and cost efficiency.

Advantages:

Enhances privacy and security.

Reduces gas fees through scalability.

Strengthens trustless interactions in DeFi and Web3.

Use Cases:

Private transactions (e.g., zkSync, Aztec).

Scalable blockchains (e.g., StarkNet, Scroll, Polygon zkEVM).

Identity verification without data exposure.