Justin Drake Introduces "Lean Ethereum" Proposal

Quantum Threat? Justin Drake Introduces "Lean Ethereum" Proposal

Written by Aaron S.,

Editor-In-Chief

Last Updated: August 01, 2025

Key Takeaways

Justin Drake’s "Lean Ethereum" proposal aims to protect the network from quantum computing threats while simplifying its design;
Zero-knowledge virtual machines would secure smart contracts by verifying data without revealing sensitive information;
Data sampling and a RISC-V framework could reduce storage needs and make Ethereum’s core system easier to manage and audit.

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Justin Drake, a researcher at the Ethereum Foundation, has introduced a proposal called "Lean Ethereum".

The goal is to prepare Ethereum ETH $4,751.64 for a future where quantum computers could pose a threat, while also making the network simpler and easier to manage.

One of the main ideas is to use a virtual machine powered by zero-knowledge proofs. These proofs allow people to confirm that certain data is correct without showing the data itself.

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In Ethereum’s case, this would help secure smart contract operations without revealing sensitive details. This method is also designed to protect against future quantum-based attacks.

To reduce the storage needed on the blockchain, Drake suggests using data availability sampling. This process checks small, random sections of a block rather than the full block. If the samples are correct, the whole block is assumed to be valid.

This makes it faster and cheaper for nodes to verify blocks, which can help more users run their own nodes without needing large amounts of storage.

For the consensus part of the network, Drake proposes switching to a RISC-V framework, a basic set of instructions used by computers.

Because it is simpler than other systems, it is easier to check for errors or hidden security issues. It could also make Ethereum’s core code easier to maintain and understand.

Core developers at Ethereum recently announced plans to release a new network upgrade called Fusaka. What does the upgrade include? Read the full story.