Last Updated: March 2026
StarkNet is a ZK-rollup Layer 2 on Ethereum that uses STARK proofs (no trusted setup required) and its own programming language, Cairo. Built by StarkWare — the team behind StarkEx (used by dYdX V3 and ImmutableX).
History
Built by StarkWare, founded by Eli Ben-Sasson (STARK proof co-inventor, Technion professor) and Uri Kolodny. StarkWare’s technology has processed $1T+ in transactions via StarkEx. StarkNet brings this tech to a permissionless L2. STRK token airdropped in 2024. See L2 guide.
How StarkNet Works
StarkNet uses STARK proofs — zero-knowledge proofs that require no trusted setup (unlike SNARKs used by zkSync/Scroll). Cairo is StarkNet’s native language, optimized for provable computation. While less EVM-compatible, Cairo enables more efficient ZK circuits.
Tokenomics
STRK: 10B total supply. Utility: Gas fees on StarkNet, staking, governance. See tokenomics.
StarkNet vs zkSync vs Scroll
- StarkNet: STARK proofs (no trusted setup), Cairo language, most technically novel
- zkSync: SNARK proofs, modified EVM, account abstraction. See zkSync
- Scroll: SNARK proofs, most EVM-equivalent. See Scroll
Pros and Cons
- Pro: STARK proofs require no trusted setup (strongest security assumption)
- Pro: StarkWare has $1T+ track record via StarkEx
- Pro: Cairo enables more efficient ZK computation
- Con: Cairo language means Ethereum apps must be rewritten (not EVM-compatible)
- Con: Smaller ecosystem than Arbitrum, Base, and zkSync
- Con: Developer learning curve is higher
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Starknet safe?
Starknet inherits security from its consensus mechanism. Smart contract risks exist on individual dApps, not the chain itself.
How do I use Starknet?
Add Starknet to your wallet (MetaMask for EVM chains), bridge or withdraw assets from an exchange, and interact with dApps.
Is Starknet a good investment?
Evaluate based on ecosystem growth, developer activity, and competitive positioning vs other chains. See our altcoin guide.
