Mintlayer has taken another significant step towards reshaping decentralised finance (DeFi) by officially unveiling the ZK Thunder Network Testnet. This cutting-edge Layer 3 (L3) scaling solution, powered by zero-knowledge (ZK) rollup technology, delivers unprecedented transaction speeds, Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility, and dramatically reduced network fees within the Mintlayer ecosystem.
Designed to address scalability and transaction speed limitations prevalent in traditional blockchain infrastructures, ZK Thunder processes transactions at lightning-fast one-second intervals. By batching multiple transactions into succinct zero-knowledge proofs, ZK Thunder significantly reduces network congestion, enabling lower costs, faster finality, and enhanced user privacy.
Mintlayer’s development team described the launch as transformational, stating, **”We connect the money of the future, Bitcoin, with real-world wealth to make markets more fair, transparent, and accessible to all.”** ZK Thunder embodies this mission, offering developers a robust platform to build scalable and user-centric DeFi applications that leverage the security of Bitcoin with the versatility of Ethereum’s smart contracts.
The introduction of EVM-compatible smart contracts within Mintlayer’s ecosystem is expected to attract a diverse range of blockchain developers and innovators, enabling seamless integration with existing Ethereum-based projects. This strategic move positions Mintlayer at the forefront of interoperability and scalability within the blockchain industry.
Further emphasising its commitment to security, Mintlayer has partnered with industry-leading blockchain security firm CertiK to initiate a comprehensive bug bounty programme. This collaborative effort invites cybersecurity professionals, developers, and white-hat hackers worldwide to rigorously test the network, identify vulnerabilities, and ensure the highest level of protection and reliability.
In parallel, Mintlayer’s Ecosystem Grant Programme continues to empower innovators by supporting pioneering projects focused on enhancing Bitcoin-based DeFi solutions.
With the ZK Thunder Network Testnet now live, Mintlayer invites developers and blockchain enthusiasts alike to explore the potential of this groundbreaking Layer 3 technology. Participants can deploy contracts, test functionalities, and experience firsthand the next generation of scalable and efficient decentralised applications.
“We connect the money of the future, Bitcoin, with real-world wealth to make markets more fair, transparent and accessible to all ~ Enrico Rubboli (Founder And CEO )”
To learn more about ZK Thunder or join the Testnet, please visit:
– [ZK Thunder Official Website](https://www.zkthunder.fi/)
– [ZK Thunder Testnet Explorer](https://explorer.testnet.zkthunder.fi/)
