Architecture

Introduction

Zircuit is a EVM-compatible zero-knowledge (zk) rollup that delivers robust security guarantees through validity proofs built on proven rollup infrastructure. We combine the battle-tested OP Stack foundation with OP-Succinct built with a modified version of Kona to support Sequencer-Level Security (SLS). SLS represents a distinctive capability that sets Zircuit apart from other networks. This feature proactively examines each transaction prior to block inclusion, detecting and preventing security threats and malicious behavior.

Core Architecture

Zircuit's architecture is built around three fundamental components that work together to process transactions, generate proofs, and maintain secure interaction with Ethereum Layer 1:

Sequencer

The sequencer layer is responsible for ordering and batching transactions to construct Layer 2 blocks. Built on the OP Stack infrastructure, sequencers ensure reliable transaction processing and block production while maintaining compatibility with existing Ethereum tooling and development workflows.

Provers

Zircuit integrates Succinct's SP1 zkVM to generate zero-knowledge validity proofs for each block. These provers create cryptographic evidence that all transactions in a block have been executed correctly according to the protocol rules, enabling trustless verification without requiring full re-execution of the transactions.

Smart Contracts

The Layer 1 smart contract infrastructure manages the core protocol functions, including state root updates, proof verification, and withdrawal processing. These contracts serve as the trust anchor between Zircuit's Layer 2 execution environment and Ethereum.

Key Benefits

The hybrid architecture delivers several advantages over traditional rollup designs:

• Fast Finality: Validity proofs provide immediate cryptographic finality without waiting periods

• No Challenge Period: Withdrawals can be processed immediately upon proof verification

• Battle-Tested Foundation: Built on OP Stack's proven infrastructure for maximum reliability

• Enhanced Security: Zero-knowledge proofs provide mathematical guarantees of execution correctness

This documentation will guide you through the technical implementation details, integration patterns, and development workflows for building on Zircuit's rollup architecture.