Boundless Launches Mainnet Beta on Coinbase’s Ethereum Layer-2 Network
Boundless, the decentralized zero-knowledge (ZK) compute marketplace powered by RISC Zero, has officially launched its incentivized testnet, known as the “Mainnet Beta,” on Base, Coinbase’s Ethereum layer-2 network.
Developers can now build and test applications within this fully live environment, thanks to Boundless’ incentivized testnet. The network has garnered early support from key industry players including the Ethereum Foundation, Wormhole, and EigenLayer.
The Power of Decentralized Zero-Knowledge Compute Marketplace
Boundless serves as a decentralized marketplace for zero-knowledge compute, connecting individuals who require zero-knowledge proofs for tasks such as building rollups, bridges, or privacy-preserving applications with a network of independent “ZK provers or miners.” These miners generate and verify proofs without the need for centralized entities, enabling anyone with the necessary hardware to contribute computing power and earn rewards for cryptographic work.
Zero-knowledge (ZK) technology plays a vital role in enabling parties to demonstrate the validity of a transaction without disclosing sensitive information like identities or amounts. ZK proofs are pivotal for the advancement of privacy and scaling-focused blockchain projects.
The Proof of Verifiable Work (PoVW) Consensus Mechanism
Boundless operates on a Proof of Verifiable Work (PoVW) consensus mechanism. This open proving market rewards ZK miners, such as institutions and individuals with high-performance GPUs, for successfully verifying proofs within a ZK Virtual Machine. Unlike traditional Proof of Work models, miners receive rewards for verification, ensuring efficiency, fairness, and security.
Participants in the incentivized testnet have the opportunity to earn early allocations of the network’s upcoming token, $ZKC, with an airdrop event scheduled later this year. Rewards are based on the volume, speed, and complexity of proofs generated.
Future Plans and Vision
The official mainnet launch of Boundless is slated for the third quarter of 2025, coinciding with the live introduction of the $ZKC token. CEO Shiv Shankar emphasized that Boundless enhances blockchain scalability by enabling secure cross-chain computing without redundant tasks, driving efficiency, security, and collaboration across diverse ecosystems.
For more information, check out: Blockchain Capital Leads $40M Round for Crypto Firm RISC Zero