TLDR
- ZKsync retires Lite to advance Ethereum scaling through ZK Era and Elastic Network.
- ZKsync Lite sunsets in 2026 as focus shifts to modular, scalable Layer-2 tech.
- From prototype to powerhouse — ZKsync evolves into Ethereum’s ZK Era future.
- ZKsync moves on from Lite, boosting EVM compatibility and institutional growth.
- ZKsync’s next chapter: secure, efficient Layer-2 expansion for Ethereum’s future.
ZKsync announced it will deprecate ZKsync Lite in 2026 as it moves toward its advanced ZK Era and Elastic Network. The decision marks a strategic shift from its early zero-knowledge rollup prototype to full-scale, modular Layer-2 systems. ZKsync confirmed that all funds remain secure and withdrawals to Ethereum will continue throughout the deprecation process.
The platform emphasized that ZKsync Lite has achieved its purpose as a proof-of-concept for production-grade ZK systems. Therefore, the protocol will begin a structured sunset period, ensuring users and developers can migrate smoothly. ZKsync stated that detailed migration guidance and timelines will follow in 2026.
The team highlighted that the transition allows resources to focus on the ZKsync Era and broader ZK Stack framework. These initiatives aim to deliver scalable, efficient, and EVM-compatible solutions for Ethereum’s growing ecosystem. ZKsync continues to operate normally while the deprecation process begins gradually.
From Proof-of-Concept to Legacy System
ZKsync Lite launched in 2020 as Ethereum’s first zero-knowledge rollup, introducing a secure and low-cost transaction layer. It reduced congestion by executing transactions off-chain while submitting cryptographic proofs to the Ethereum mainnet. Its limited functionality restricted adoption once smart-contract-enabled rollups emerged.
With the introduction of ZKsync Era in 2023, the focus shifted to EVM-compatible architecture and broader developer integration. ZKsync Era enabled advanced decentralized applications and improved interoperability with Ethereum’s ecosystem. User activity on ZKsync Lite declined as developers migrated to modern rollup frameworks.
ZKsync also rebranded Lite from its earlier version, zkSync 1.0, confirming the end of major updates in 2023. The network still holds nearly $50 million in bridged assets, maintaining operational stability. Yet, fewer than 200 daily transactions now occur, underscoring its gradual phase-out.
Institutional Adoption Strengthens ZKsync’s Ecosystem
ZKsync’s ongoing evolution has attracted significant institutional engagement across financial sectors. Deutsche Bank is testing ZKsync technology for asset tokenization through Project Dama 2 under Singapore’s regulatory sandbox. UBS and Tradable have also conducted pilot programs for gold-backed and credit-based tokenization using ZKsync infrastructure.
These collaborations demonstrate the scalability and reliability of ZKsync’s upgraded frameworks. The ZKsync 3.0 upgrade in 2024 created the Elastic Network, linking multiple ZK chains through shared cryptographic security. This model eliminates traditional bridging risks while enhancing liquidity and interoperability.
As institutions adopt ZKsync technology, its reputation as a core Layer-2 enabler for Ethereum continues to strengthen. The planned sunset of ZKsync Lite reflects a natural progression toward robust, modular systems. Through the ZK Era and Elastic Network, ZKsync aims to deliver sustainable scalability for Ethereum’s future growth.
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