- Aztec introduced its four-layer technology stack to provide programmable privacy on Ethereum as a decentralized layer 2 network.
- The Aztec-developed Noir language allows developers to write zero-knowledge programs without cryptographic expertise, with privacy enabled by default.
- The network currently has over 3,500 active sequencers on its Alpha network, with sequencer and prover roles being completely permissionless.
Aztecs published a detailed technical description of the architecture, called ‘The Aztec Pile’, which explains how the L2 network on Ethereum makes this possible end-to-end programmable privacy for smart contract developers.
The four layers of the Aztecs
The system is organized in four layers. The first is Blacka domain-specific programming language for zero knowledge circuits (zk). with Rust-like syntax. Black compiles code into zk circuits automatically called up via an intermediate display ACIRcompatible with multiple test backends, including a proprietary system Barrettenberg. Privacy is the default behavior: all variables and functions remain private unless the developer explicitly states otherwise using the `pub` attribute.
Beyond shielded transactions
The second layer consists of smart contracts written with the Aztec.nr frameworkwhich Noir extends to manage the public and private state in the chain. A single contract is possible perform private functions on the user’s device and public functions on the network, by combining them transparently. Implement account contracts account abstractionenabling social account recovery, multi-factor authentication and granular access controls useful for regulatory compliance and tax reporting.
The third layer is the network itself. Private functions are performed in a private execution environment (PXE) on the user’s device, generating zk proofs reveal no input, output or identity. Public functions are processed by sequencers, which verify private proofs, perform public status, and publish state differences with Ethereum’s L1. Each era, defined as a succession of 32 L2 blocks, receives a final proof generated by a decentralized prover network and published on-chain.
Noir is already being deployed
The fourth layer is Ethereumwhich acts as the settlement layer: roll-up trials are anchored to L1, inherit his economic security. The private state model uses UTXOs, while the public state model uses UTXOs replicates Ethereum’s account model.
Noir is already used outside the Aztec ecosystem through projects that are built upon Basic, Scroll and Starknetdemonstrating its relevance as a standard language for zero-knowledge applications.