Starknet @Starknet is currently a ZK rollup on Ethereum, using STARK proofs that are hash-based and resistant to known quantum attacks. Combined with native account abstraction, it allows for post-quantum signature upgrades without requiring hard forks or address changes—making it more flexible than most chains. However, as an L2, its bridge and data availability still rely on Ethereum. The bridge depends on secp-related calls, and data availability uses Ethereum’s blobs and KZG—all of which are still based on elliptic curve cryptography. Thus, while Starknet can rapidly upgrade its own components (proof and account layers), its bridge and data availability are locked to Ethereum’s timeline. Ethereum’s goal is to complete its underlying post-quantum transition around 2029, but Starknet’s official target is to complete its full stack by 2027. This is why discussions about an independent post-quantum L1 are emerging—not simply to abandon Ethereum, but to take control of the timeline. If Starknet remains an L2, it can still upgrade its proof and account layers relatively quickly, but its bridge and data availability remain bound to Ethereum’s schedule. Overall security is limited by Ethereum’s pace, leaving no choice but to wait. By becoming an independent L1, Starknet could design its own settlement, consensus, data availability, and bridging mechanisms—enabling it to achieve a full post-quantum stack by 2027 without waiting for Ethereum, while also unifying account abstraction from the ground up. The cost is clear: it would need to build its own consensus and economic security, no longer directly inheriting Ethereum’s deep layer of validator security. This is currently in the research phase. In October, a non-binding vote showed 93.52% support for further research; a second vote will be required for any actual migration. STRK will remain the native token, and the bridge will stay open for now. In essence, the discussion is about whether it’s possible to complete a full post-quantum stack without fully severing Ethereum’s settlement layer. @Starknet