TLDR
- Starknet launched a seven-day STRK governance vote on October 15, with voting scheduled to close on October 22.
- The non-binding vote asks holders whether to research becoming an independent layer-1 blockchain.
- StarkWare targets quantum resistance by 2027, while Ethereum targets broader protection by December 2029.
- Early voting showed 99.9% support by voting power for further research, with the poll still open.
- StarkWare has proposed no migration date, and STRK would remain the network’s native token under either approach.
Starknet opened a seven-day vote on whether to study becoming an independent layer-1 blockchain rather than relying on Ethereum. The non-binding poll runs October 15-22.
STRK stakers and delegators can support research, oppose it, or request more information. The ballot does not approve a network change or set a date.
Starknet vote gives holders three choices
The governance proposal offers Yes, No, and Neutral options. A Yes result would start research and further votes, not an immediate switch.
A No result would keep quantum security work within Starknet’s Ethereum layer-2 structure. A Neutral outcome would leave discussion open while the community seeks answers.
The Starknet Foundation says STRK would remain the network’s token under either approach. Bridges connecting Ethereum and Starknet would stay open. Developers have not published a migration timetable.
Quantum security drives the layer-1 debate
StarkWare says Starknet’s proof system already uses cryptography designed to withstand quantum attacks. However, its bridge and data posted to Ethereum still depend on Ethereum’s upgrades.
In an October 8 X post, Starknet said it was considering layer-1 status and targeting quantum resistance by 2027. StarkWare also introduced Shadow Accounts for private DeFi activity this week.
Ethereum has a post-quantum roadmap, targeting full protection across core layers by December 2029. That is a target, not a guaranteed delivery date. Current quantum computers cannot break Ethereum’s cryptography.
StarkWare called an independent chain its clearest path in an October 10 X post. Its June roadmap identified Ethereum bridges and data availability as outside dependencies.
STRK price reacts as debate continues
The poll follows a sharp STRK price rally on October 11. The token gained more than 50% in 24 hours before retreating. Price movements do not indicate how holders will vote.
By 14:40 UTC on October 15, 293 ballots represented 179.8 million STRK in voting power, with 99.9% supporting research. Final results will appear after the poll closes, without approving a transition.
Other companies are examining quantum risks. Coinbase published a Bitcoin post-quantum security plan, urging developers to prepare before powerful quantum computers arrive. Its recommendations concern Bitcoin, not Starknet’s governance vote.
Moving to layer 1 would require Starknet to manage security and settlement without Ethereum. The design, costs, and transition steps remain open for later governance votes. No final independent network design or timeline has been published.
