sam_dev 
Starknet considers leaving Ethereum, becoming an independent Layer 1 to counter risks from AI and quantum computers by 2027.
Starknet is seriously considering the possibility of transitioning from a Layer 2 on Ethereum to an independent Layer 1 blockchain, aiming to build a network fully resilient to threats from quantum computers by 2027.
The information was announced by Starknet on October 8, 2026, after Eli Ben-Sasson, co-founder and CEO of StarkWare, raised the question of whether the project should become a Layer 1 to be more proactive in upgrading post-quantum cryptography.
According to the proposed direction, becoming a Layer 1 could allow Starknet to have more direct control over the security architecture and the pace of deploying cryptographic upgrades, rather than relying on Ethereum’s development roadmap. Starknet currently operates as a Layer 2 solution, using Ethereum as a security and state data posting platform.
Eli Ben-Sasson believes that the blockchain industry needs to pay attention to two major challenges developing in parallel: quantum computers and artificial intelligence (AI). According to him, the rapid advancement of these technologies may require current cryptographic security assumptions to be reassessed sooner than anticipated.
He emphasized that blockchains need to prepare for the future through three factors: using appropriate cryptographic algorithms, having the flexibility to change cryptographic mechanisms when necessary, and actively controlling the network infrastructure. Transitioning to Layer 1 is seen as a way for Starknet to increase autonomy in implementing these changes.
Previously, on June 30, 2026, StarkWare announced a roadmap for post-quantum security upgrades for Starknet. The plan includes changing some cryptographic components, deploying quantum-resistant signature mechanisms, and gradually addressing remaining dependencies in the ecosystem, including components related to the Ethereum bridge and data provisioning mechanisms.
Starknet uses STARK proof technology, which relies on cryptographic hash functions instead of the difficulty of elliptic curve problems in the proof generation process. This is an architectural advantage when preparing for scenarios where quantum computers could threaten some popular cryptographic systems today. However, this does not mean the entire Starknet network is fully quantum-resistant, as existing signature mechanisms, contracts, and components connected to Ethereum still need to be appropriately addressed.
