Aligned | Decentralized Network | Code Review

Introduction

Aligned is a decentralized network designed to verify Zero-Knowledge (ZK) and validity proofs, with results posted directly to Ethereum. Utilizing EigenLayer’s restaking mechanism, Aligned achieves high-throughput, low-latency, and cost-effective proof verification without competing for Ethereum’s blockspace. Depending on application needs, this dual-mode operation optimizes for either speed or security.

Innovation

Aligned introduces a groundbreaking solution to the challenges of ZK proof verification by:

• Leveraging Restaking: Inherits Ethereum’s security via EigenLayer, reducing the need for separate consensus mechanisms.
• Dual-Mode Operation: Offers flexibility with “Fast Mode” for speed and cost-efficiency and “Aggregation Mode” for enhanced security and scalability.
• Proof-System Agnostic Infrastructure: This infrastructure supports multiple proof systems (e.g., Groth16, PLONK, STARKs), broadening its applicability across use cases.

Architecture

Aligned’s architecture integrates key components for efficient operation:

• Operators: Restaked Ethereum validators who verify proofs off-chain by executing verification code natively. This approach prioritizes speed and minimizes costs.
• Batcher: Organizes proofs into batches for verification, offering an optional intermediary service to reduce user friction.
• BLS Signature Aggregator: Ensures on-chain verification by collecting operator signatures and achieving a two-thirds majority quorum.

Operational Modes

1. Fast Mode:
   • Mechanism: Operators verify proofs off-chain and sign them, with aggregated signatures validated on-chain.
   • Advantages:
     • High throughput (>1,000 proofs/second).
     • Low latency, suitable for time-sensitive applications.
     • Cost-efficient, reducing verification expenses by up to 99%.
   • Security Considerations: Relies on at least 67% honest operators to maintain integrity and prevent false proofs.
2. Aggregation Mode:
   • Mechanism: Aggregates multiple proofs into a single recursive proof for on-chain validation.
   • Advantages: Full Ethereum security guarantees.
   • Trade-offs: Higher latency and operational costs compared to Fast Mode.

Code Quality

Aligned’s codebase demonstrates:

• Modular Design: Ensures flexibility for supporting various proof systems and scaling infrastructure.
• Optimization for Performance: Native execution of verification code enhances speed and reduces operational overhead.
• Comprehensive Testing: Focuses on ensuring security, robustness, and fault tolerance in critical components like operator consensus and signature aggregation.
• Open Source Commitment: Aligned fosters transparency and community-driven development by maintaining an accessible codebase.

Product Roadmap

• Near-Term Goals:
  • Expand support for additional proof systems to accommodate diverse application needs.
  • Enhance operator incentives to encourage decentralization and reliability.
• Long-Term Vision:
  • Integrate with emerging rollup frameworks and cross-chain protocols.
  • Develop partnerships with projects leveraging ZK technologies in DeFi, machine learning, and identity verification.

Usability

Aligned’s usability features include:

• Developer-Centric Design: Offers SDKs and APIs for seamless integration with existing applications.
• Proof-System Agnosticism: Simplifies adoption by providing support for multiple ZK-proof systems.
• Low Barrier to Entry: Enables projects to utilize Fast Mode for immediate benefits without extensive development overhead.

Team

Aligned’s team comprises experts in blockchain, cryptography, and distributed systems. Their experience spans:

• Building scalable blockchain infrastructure.
• Advancing ZK-proof technologies.
• Integrating secure staking mechanisms like EigenLayer. The team’s collective expertise ensures robust development and alignment with industry standards.

Conclusion

Aligned’s innovative ZK proof verification approach addresses Ethereum’s critical scalability, cost, and latency bottlenecks. By leveraging EigenLayer’s restaking and supporting a variety of proof systems, Aligned sets a new standard for verifiable computation. Its dual-mode operation, coupled with strong economic incentives and modular design, positions it as a key enabler for rollups, bridges, and beyond applications. At the same time, challenges like EigenLayer dependency and operator decentralization remain; Aligned’s roadmap and architectural flexibility offer promising solutions for the blockchain ecosystem.