The Shielding Demo on the Aleph Zero EVM Testnet is live, meaning that users can now see subsecond privacy with client-side proofs in real on-chain use. Let’s break down everything you need to know in this article.
The Shielding Demo is the first feature release based on zkOS. It is a unique smart contract-based privacy tool that utilizes zero-knowledge proofs to enable private transactions and interactions with decentralized finance (DeFi) applications like Common on the Aleph Zero EVM.
Most zero-knowledge proofs are generated server-side, but Aleph Zero’s zkOS generates privacy proofs directly on user devices—and in a fraction of second. The Shielding Demo serves as the first practical interface for users to experience this privacy functionality, with zero-knowledge proofs generated within 0.5-3 seconds, ensuring that privacy has minimal impact on transaction performance.
How does the Shielding Demo work?
Essentially, the Shielding Demo prevents users from being tracked on-chain and allows them to privately transfer assets to any Aleph Zero EVM address. Here’s how it works:
Data Privacy: zkOS generates zero-knowledge proofs locally on user devices, ensuring that data remains private and secure.
Transaction Flow: Users generate ZK proofs, send transactions to a relayer, and then they are executed on-chain—all while maintaining privacy.
Fast Proving Times: The system delivers ZK proofs in 0.5-3 seconds on most devices, demonstrating zkOS’ speed and its minimal impact on transaction times.
How do Common users benefit? Enhanced privacy protection, security, and tools
The Testnet version of zkOS allows users to interact with the system and witness its capabilities. These privacy capabilities are being built directly into the upcoming Common app, where users will be able to take advantage of:
Enhanced privacy protection: Shield your transaction history from public view, protect your sensitive financial data, and prevent competitors from analyzing your trading strategies. Deposit tokens into a shared pool where their funds become indistinguishable from others. While funds are in the shield, there’s no visible record of individual deposits or transactions performed.
Security without sacrifice: Maintain compliance with regulations while enjoying private transactions—and protect against front-running and other malicious activities.
Accessible privacy tools and user-friendly UX: Privacy is as simple as a few clicks. There’s no need for advanced technical knowledge. Shielding will become an integral part of the upcoming Common app and the central piece of the Aleph Zero ecosystem—so stay tuned for more news on this front!
The next steps for shielding and privacy-enhanced DeFi on Common
As the Testnet release progresses, the team is wholly focused on refining the shielding feature and zkOS for its Mainnet deployment. Common users who engage with the demo will have the opportunity to be whitelisted for upcoming Beta testing on Aleph Zero’s EVM Mainnet.
But right now, you can already try the Shielding Demo and experience its unique speed and features first-hand on Common.