StarkWare is paving the way for decentralization on two fronts: planning and implementation. A well-defined roadmap is in place to guide the transformation of the Starknet protocol into a decentralized proof-of-stake protocol.
Introduction
#StarkNet currently leverages the security and decentralization of the Ethereum blockchain by sending #STARK proofs of state transitions for validation. This approach places significant constraints on central authorities, ensuring that no entity can tamper with transaction messages or manipulate user data or assets fraudulently. This initial step is critical for trust minimization, but more work is needed to achieve full decentralization, where the network can function independently of centralized parties. This article outlines a preliminary roadmap for the next phases of this journey.
How did Starknet come to this?
Approximately a year ago, team initiated a comprehensive decentralization research process, chronicling it through a series of blog posts that culminated in a concrete proposal. Primary goal is to transition Sequencer+Prover operations to a decentralized proof-of-stake protocol. This would allow open participation in sequencing, removing any single point of failure in the network. Two critical threads are now underway:
Implementation of various components required for running the decentralized protocol.
A transition process to gradually decentralize Starknet operations to network stakers.
In this article, our focus will be on the latter.
The Transition Process
The transition process itself comprises four main threads:
Transitioning to a decentralized network architecture while Sequencer operation remains centralized.
Ensuring the availability of a fully open-sourced software stack.
Developing increasingly broad testing and integration networks.
Fostering Staker onboarding in preparation for the final transition to Sequencer operation by proof-of-stake participants.
These threads represent sequential dependencies, but concurrent work is possible. Below, we delve into each thread:
1. Decentralized Network Architecture
The Starknet network is moving towards a more decentralized model. Currently, full nodes do not communicate with each other, relying on periodic queries to the Sequencer through a centralized feeder gateway. In a less centralized model, full nodes will be part of a peer-to-peer network, eliminating the need for direct connections to the Sequencer. This transition encompasses more than just network connectivity, including the introduction of block signing by the Sequencer and a more distributed approach to data propagation among nodes.
2. Working Towards a Fully Open-Sourced Software Stack
Making the software stack open-source is crucial to enable broader participation in protocol and network development. As more components are implemented, they will be released for public testing and scrutiny. Notable examples of open-sourced components include full nodes (Pathfinder, Juno, Deoxys), Provers (Stone, Sandstorm), Sequencers (Blockifier, Madara), and Block Explorers (Starkscan, Voyager, ViewBlock, Stark Compass).
3. Testing & Integration Networks
Broad testing and integration networks are essential for a smooth transition. Components will progress from internal testnets to permissioned testnets with external participants and eventually to public testnets, integration, and mainnet. Decisions regarding the sequential or concurrent introduction of new components will be made in due course.
4. Staker Onboarding
A significant amount of tokens must be staked in the L1 staking contract to secure the decentralized protocol with substantial economic weight. This precaution prevents a scenario where a small number of participants with minimal stakes attempt to take control of Starknet maliciously.
Conclusion
In summary, this article provides a high-level overview of the tentative roadmap for decentralizing Starknet. As with any complex engineering plan, it is subject to evolution and change as the community of builders and contributors gains better insights and understanding. Feedback, suggestions, and criticisms are encouraged and welcomed on the Starknet community forum.
Starknet is on a path toward a decentralized future, ensuring trust-minimization and security for all its users.