Starknet Weighs Becoming Independent Blockchain With 2027 Quantum-Resistance Goal
Starknet explores splitting from Ethereum
Starknet announced on Oct. 8 that it is actively considering becoming an independent Layer 1 blockchain, with a goal of achieving full quantum resistance by 2027. The move would remove the network's dependence on Ethereum's security and data infrastructure.
Starknet currently runs as an Ethereum Layer 2, which means it processes transactions on its own chain but relies on Ethereum for final settlement and data storage. The announcement does not set a firm migration date; it signals that the idea is under active consideration.
Key numbers to watch
- STRK price rose 116.7% over seven days, reaching $0.1190 as of an Oct. 11 snapshot.
- A token unlock on Oct. 15 could release up to 127 million STRK for early contributors and investors.
- Futures trading hit $3.5 billion in 24 hours, with open interest around $258.5 million.
- Ethereum's own quantum-resistance target remains December 2029.
What the Starknet team says
StarkWare CEO Eli Ben-Sasson linked the potential transition to growing concerns that advances in quantum computing and artificial intelligence could weaken current blockchain cryptography. He argued that the quantum threat may arrive sooner than many expect and that powerful AI tools add urgency to the preparation.
Starknet's ZK-STARK proof system is built on hash-based cryptography, which is considered resistant to attacks from sufficiently powerful quantum computers. Unlike elliptic-curve signatures, hash-based schemes do not rely on the same mathematical problems that quantum algorithms could solve quickly.
The network also supports programmable accounts, allowing users to adopt alternative signature schemes without requiring a full network upgrade.
Roadmap divides controllable steps from Ethereum dependencies
In June, StarkWare published a three-phase quantum-readiness roadmap. The first two phases address vulnerable hashing mechanisms and legacy smart contracts, both of which Starknet can handle on its own. The third phase covers bridge and data dependencies inherited from Ethereum, which depend on Ethereum's own migration timeline.
The Ethereum Foundation's Protocol cluster has set a December 2029 target for quantum resistance across its execution, consensus, and data layers. If Starknet becomes independent, it would need to replace Ethereum's security and settlement model with its own.
Token unlock ahead
Data from Tokenomist shows an Oct. 15 unlock date, with Starknet's vesting schedule allowing up to 127 million STRK to unlock each month through March 2027. At the Oct. 11 price, that maximum tranche would be worth about $15.1 million and represent 1.27% of the original 10 billion-token supply.
The unlock makes previously restricted tokens transferable. It does not indicate how many recipients will sell or hold their tokens.
What is confirmed
- Starknet said on Oct. 8 that it is actively considering becoming a Layer 1.
- The network's stated target for full quantum resistance is 2027.
- STRK saw significant price and volume increases around the announcement.
- StarkWare outlined a three-phase quantum roadmap in June, with the final phase dependent on Ethereum.
What is still unclear
- No formal migration timetable has been approved.
- It is unknown whether Starknet will ultimately leave Ethereum or remain a Layer 2.
- The source does not confirm how many unlock recipients will sell their tokens after Oct. 15.
Why this matters for the network
If Starknet moves to an independent Layer 1, it would gain full control over its security and settlement model, removing reliance on Ethereum for data availability and finality. That could allow faster upgrades and more direct responsibility for quantum-readiness, but it would also require building or securing its own infrastructure to replace Ethereum's protections.
Source
Newisty Editorial Team covers technology, cryptocurrency, digital products, online platforms, developer tools and the wider digital economy. Our content is researched from official sources, company announcements, public documentation, market data and other primary or reputable sources. Articles are reviewed and edited before publication for clarity, accuracy and useful context.