Paper 2024/050

Do You Need a Zero Knowledge Proof?

Jens Ernstberger, Technical University of Munich
Stefanos Chaliasos, Imperial College London
Liyi Zhou, Imperial College London
Philipp Jovanovic, University College London
Arthur Gervais, University College London
Abstract

Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs), a cryptographic tool known for decades, have gained significant attention in recent years due to advancements that have made them practically applicable in real-world scenarios. ZKPs can provide unique attributes, such as succinctness, non-interactivity, and the ability to prove knowledge without revealing the information itself, making them an attractive solution for a range of applications. This paper aims to critically analyze the applicability of ZKPs in various scenarios. We categorize ZKPs into distinct types: SNARKs (Succinct Non-Interactive Arguments of Knowledge), Commit-then-Prove ZKPs, MPC-in-the-Head, and Sigma Protocols, each offering different trade-offs and benefits. We introduce a flowchart methodology to assist in determining the most suitable ZKP system, given a set of technical application requirements. Next, we conduct an in-depth investigation of three major use cases: Outsourcing Computation, Digital Self-Sovereign Identity, and ZKPs in networking. Additionally, we provide a high-level overview of other applications of ZKPs, exploring their broader implications and opportunities. This paper aims to demystify the decision-making process involved in choosing the right ZKP system, providing clarity on when and how these cryptographic tools can be effectively utilized in various domains — and when they are better to be avoided.

Metadata
Available format(s)
PDF
Category
Applications
Publication info
Published elsewhere. CfC St. Moritz Academic Research Track 2024
Contact author(s)
jens ernstberger @ tum de
s chaliasos21 @ imperial ac uk
liyi zhou @ imperial ac uk
p jovanovic @ ucl ac uk
arthur @ gervais cc
History
2024-01-15: approved
2024-01-13: received
See all versions
Short URL
https://ia.cr/2024/050
License
Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs
CC BY-NC-ND

BibTeX

@misc{cryptoeprint:2024/050,
      author = {Jens Ernstberger and Stefanos Chaliasos and Liyi Zhou and Philipp Jovanovic and Arthur Gervais},
      title = {Do You Need a Zero Knowledge Proof?},
      howpublished = {Cryptology {ePrint} Archive, Paper 2024/050},
      year = {2024},
      url = {https://eprint.iacr.org/2024/050}
}
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