# Vitalik Buterin Declares Zero-Knowledge Speed Race Won as Ethereum Priority Shifts to Security

- URL: https://stocks.freetheai.org/news/vitalik-buterin-declares-zero-knowledge-speed-race-won-as-ethereum-priority-e69bcf
- Published: 2026-10-15T04:42:39Z
- Category: crypto; sentiment: neutral; impact: low
- Symbols: [BITSTAMP:ETHUSD](https://stocks.freetheai.org/symbols/BITSTAMP-ETHUSD)
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Ethereum (BITSTAMP:ETHUSD) co-founder Vitalik Buterin declared that developers have solved the speed challenges facing zero-knowledge proofs, calling for an immediate shift in focus toward security. His comments followed claims by Layer-2 developer ZKsync that its new Airbender Prime prover generated 99% of proofs in under 10 seconds across 7,200 consecutive mainnet blocks using a single graphics card. The cryptocurrency was down 2.12% at 2,367 USD.

Faster zero-knowledge proving allows network validators to verify short cryptographic proofs rather than re-running every transaction in a block. Because Ethereum generates a new block every 12 seconds, real-time proving reduces validator workloads without delaying network consensus. Lowering the hardware threshold for provers also enables more independent operators and institutions to participate. However, because Airbender Prime is a third-party tool rather than a protocol-level update, it does not directly alter Ethereum supply, transaction fees, or staking yields.

Moving forward, Buterin outlined key benchmarks for zero-knowledge systems, including adherence to Ethereum specifications, capped proving costs against block gas, and formal mathematical verification of proof code. With institutional interest tied to network reliability, developers and investors will be watching whether zkEVM projects undergo rigorous security audits to prevent smart contract flaws before wider adoption.

## Key points

- Vitalik Buterin stated that zero-knowledge proof speed goals are achieved, making security the top priority for zkEVM development.
- ZKsync reported that its Airbender Prime prover completed 99% of proofs in under 10 seconds over 7,200 mainnet blocks on one graphics card.
- Ethereum (BITSTAMP:ETHUSD) traded down 2.12% at 2,367 USD following the announcement.
- Airbender Prime is a tool built by ZKsync and does not change Ethereum protocol mechanics, token supply, or staking rewards.

## Questions and answers

### Why is Vitalik Buterin shifting focus to zero-knowledge security?

Vitalik Buterin noted that prover speed milestones have been met, meaning zkEVMs must now prioritize formal verification and security to prevent system flaws and maintain network credibility.

### How fast is ZKsync Airbender Prime prover?

ZKsync reported that Airbender Prime processed 99% of proofs in under 10 seconds across 7,200 consecutive mainnet blocks using a single graphics card.

### Does ZKsync Airbender Prime impact the price of Ethereum?

Airbender Prime is a tool developed by ZKsync rather than a change to the core Ethereum protocol. It does not alter Ethereum token supply, transaction fees, or staking rewards.