Verkle trees are an improvement for Ethereum’s data storage mechanism, aimed at enhancing the scalability, efficiency, and performance of the network. They are set to replace the current Merkle Patricia trees used in Ethereum.
The term Verkle Tree comes from a combination of Vector Commitmens and Merkle. This denotes that
Etheruem is set to implement Verkle Trees with the Pectra Upgrade (Prague + Electra).
Goals of Verkle Trees
1. Improved Scalability
Verkle trees will reduce the size of cryptographic proofs needed to verify the state of the blockchain. This means less data needs to be transmitted and stored by validators, allowing Ethereum to scale more efficiently, especially with a growing number of validators.
2. Lower Bandwidth Requirements
Verkle trees require much smaller proofs compared to Merkle Patricia trees. This reduction in proof size decreases the bandwidth needed for syncing nodes, which is crucial for new validators joining the network or for light clients (which don’t need to store the entire blockchain).
Doing so, the Ethereum node can be run on a personal desktop laptop or even a mobile device. Mobile phones can easily stay awake and process data in the background without many issues, unlike desktops that usually face heating and shutdowns.
Currently, most Ethereum nodes are being run on centralized cloud services like AWS which alone runs 28% of the Ethereum validators.
3. Faster Node Synchronization
With smaller proofs and less data being sent around the network, new nodes and validators can sync to the latest blockchain state much faster. This makes it easier for more participants to join the network, improving decentralization.
4. Better Support for Stateless Clients
Verkle trees enable “stateless” clients, which don’t need to store the entire blockchain state. Stateless clients rely on receiving necessary state data from other participants. Verkle trees make this process more efficient by allowing these clients to verify data with smaller and more efficient proofs.
This supports Vitalik Buterin’s aim of creating a node network where solo takers can participate in ETH’s consensus as validators and operate the nodes on devices like mobile phones.
#NOTE: Some websites have claimed that Pectra Upgrade will help run validator nodes on smartwatches. Though feasible, it would become a nightmare from a security perspective. Therefore, that is more of a hyperbole.
5. Storage Efficiency
By replacing the current Merkle Patricia tree structure, Verkle trees reduce the amount of redundant and excessive data that needs to be stored on the blockchain, further streamlining storage.
6. Enhances Ethereum’s Decentralization
With reduced resource requirements (storage, bandwidth), Verkle trees allow a broader range of participants to run full or validating nodes, making Ethereum more decentralized over time as it’s easier for individuals to participate.
