Vitalik Buterin, the co-founder of Ethereum, has brought attention to a significant issue concerning one of the network’s most complex elements, the modular exponential computation or modexp. He highlighted that modexp has become a serious problem in terms of ZK-EVM compatibility. Buterin pointed out that modexp introduces up to 50 times more computational load on average blocks, suggesting the need for its replacement with improved EVM code. He emphasized that this change could increase gas fees but is necessary for enhancing the network’s efficiency and security.
Impact of Modexp on the Ethereum Network
In a series of two posts from his personal X account, Buterin underscored how modexp contributes to inefficiency and complexity within the Ethereum network, thus posing threats to both the ZK-EVM proving processes and the security of consensus. He reminded that the ZK-EVM technology is pivotal in scaling Ethereum’s network, and components like modexp stand as significant obstacles to this objective.
Buterin argued against heroic optimization efforts for a component that only benefits 0.01% of users, indicating that improvements should prioritize other parts of the network. He reflected on the need to allocate resources efficiently to enhance the overall system performance.
Proposal for SNARK Over RSA
Modexp is predominantly involved in RSA-based encryption and signing operations, according to Buterin. However, he advocated that these functions could be carried out more effectively through SNARK-based solutions. SNARK systems can expedite the verification process, thus lowering both transaction costs and network load.
Buterin recognized that while modexp was beneficial to the network in the past, it no longer meets the current scalability and security demands. He stated that “Modexp genuinely pulls Ethereum significantly backward,” adding that its complexity had previously led to consensus errors and threatened network stability.