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Starknet opens poll on independent post-quantum L1

Starknet opened a seven-day, non-binding STRK poll on researching an independent post-quantum Layer 1; a yes vote starts research, not a move.

The Today Crypto Editors

Starknet opens poll on independent post-quantum L1

Starknet has opened a seven-day poll asking STRK holders whether to research making the Ethereum scaling network an independent, post-quantum Layer 1. The Starknet Community Forum proposal says the poll is non-binding; Starknet currently relies on Ethereum for its bridge and data availability.

The vote could start a research process, but it does not approve a move or set a timeline for one.

What exactly are STRK holders voting on?

The ballot asks whether Starknet should research becoming an independent chain. It opened at 09:32 UTC on Oct. 15 and is scheduled to close at the same time on Oct. 22, according to Unchained’s report.

Voters can choose yes, no, or neutral if they need more information. A yes would start research and lead to more detailed proposals and polls; a no leaves post-quantum work on the Layer 2 path. Any decision to transition would require a separate governance process.

Why consider leaving Ethereum?

The proposal says Starknet’s own components can become quantum-resistant, while its Ethereum-linked bridge and data availability depend on Ethereum’s upgrade timeline. Running as an independent Layer 1 would remove that dependency.

Starknet already uses hash-based STARK proofs and native account abstraction, and the forum post says users can adopt post-quantum signatures without a protocol upgrade. It gives no timeline for a possible transition. The poll is about exploring a direction, not a scheduled technical change.

What changes for STRK holders and users now?

For holders, the immediate step is to vote during the poll window; the proposal describes it as a poll for STRK holders. The result will be visible when voting closes. The forum post says STRK would remain the token under either path, and Ethereum-to-Starknet bridges would stay open.

For users, nothing changes as a result of this first vote. Even a yes would fund or initiate research rather than alter how the network settles transactions, how its bridge works, or what users need to do. More specific trade-offs would depend on proposals produced by that research and later governance votes.

Sources