Mintlayer, a prominent Layer-2 scaling solution, has partnered with Salus, a security firm specializing in zero-knowledge (ZK) proofs, to introduce the Thunder Network—a cutting-edge Layer-3 ZK rollup-based network designed to enhance Bitcoin's scalability and functionality.
Advancing Bitcoin's capabilities with Thunder Network
The Thunder Network initiative is poised to transform Bitcoin's utility by integrating advanced privacy features, improved transaction speeds, and greater scalability. This Layer-3 solution enhances these aspects and brings Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatible functionalities. With it, developers can seamlessly build applications that are both secure and reliable on a Bitcoin-connected infrastructure.
This integration means that existing EVM dApps will be compatible, simplifying the process for developers to innovate on the Bitcoin network via the Mintlayer protocol.
"Partnering with Salus is a significant milestone in Mintlayer’s mission to revolutionize Bitcoin’s scalability and functionality. Through integrating ZK, Thunder Network will enhance transaction speed and privacy while providing developers with powerful EVM capabilities to build innovative applications on top of Bitcoin. We’re excited to work with Salus to unlock Bitcoin’s full potential and drive the future of DeFi.” —Enrico Rubboli, Mintlayer's Founder
Salus' reputation for advancing privacy-enhancing technologies and their proven track record in the Ethereum ecosystem made them an ideal partner for Mintlayer. Earlier this year, Salus introduced a series of groundbreaking ZK solutions specifically for Ethereum, highlighting their expertise and innovative approach to blockchain privacy and security.
Building a future-proof Bitcoin network
"We’re thrilled to join forces with Mintlayer to build the Thunder Network, a cutting-edge Layer-3 solution that will redefine how developers and users interact with Bitcoin. The synergy between Salus’ privacy-enhancing ZK solutions and Mintlayer's Bitcoin layer 2 scaling expertise will drive innovation and adoption in the Bitcoin space while maintaining security, privacy, and decentralization.”—Shawn Chong, COO of Salus
The Thunder Network is strategically designed to resolve potential scaling challenges faced by the Mintlayer network, while also enabling additional EVM functionality that may currently be absent from Mintlayer. This approach ensures that the network remains robust, scalable, and capable of supporting a wide range of applications.
Wrapping up
The partnership between Mintlayer and Salus through the Thunder Network represents a significant advancement in the evolution of Bitcoin and its functionality within the broader blockchain ecosystem. By incorporating Layer-3 ZK rollups, the Thunder Network aims to provide a seamless, high-performance user experience without compromising the security, privacy, and decentralization that Bitcoin is known for.