Proof is in the Pudding

Part 1

Archetype x zkSecurity (Whiteboard Session) - Proof is in the Pudding: Arithmetization

Join us for a deep dive into the fascinating world of arithmetization as David from our team breaks down the process of converting logical statements into algebraic forms to create arithmetic circuits, essential for constructing ZK proofs. This unedited recording from our "Proof is in the Pudding" series offers a unique opportunity to grasp these foundational concepts, perfect for anyone keen on unlocking the mechanics behind zero-knowledge proofs. Curious? Check out the session on Archetype's channel!

ZK/SEC October 03, 2024 1 min Read →

Part 2

Archetype x zkSecurity (Whiteboard Session) - Proof is in the Pudding: zkTLS

In our "Proof is in the Pudding" series, hosted with Archetype, we dive into the world of zkTLS, also known as zkOracles, HTTPz, or MPC-TLS. You'll get the inside scoop on various approaches like public oracles, TEE methods such as TownCrier, and hybrid models using MPC protocols. It's a perfect chance to explore cutting-edge TLS technologies and see how they shape secure communication. Check out the recorded session on Archetype's channel!

ZK/SEC October 16, 2024 1 min Read →

Part 3

Archetype x zkSecurity (Whiteboard Session) - Proof is in the Pudding: How to prove false statements

In our third whiteboard session with Archetype, we dive into the fascinating world of cryptographic protocols by breaking down the intricacies of the Fiat-Shamir security model and the GKR protocol. Whether you're a cryptography enthusiast or just curious about how these complex mechanisms enhance security, this is a chance to explore the theories with us in a friendly and digestible way. Don't miss the opportunity to expand your understanding of this cutting-edge topic!

ZK/SEC February 25, 2025 1 min Read →

Part 4

Trust, But Measure: A Friendly Intro to TEEs with Intel TDX

In the latest session of "Proof is in the Pudding," we teamed up with Archetype to explore the basics of Trusted Execution Environments. Through a collaborative whiteboarding session, we break down key concepts and practical applications, making this tech topic accessible and engaging. Dive in to discover how these environments can enhance digital security in a straightforward way.

ZK/SEC June 28, 2025 1 min Read →

Part 6

Archetype x zkSecurity - Proof in the Pudding: Introduction to Data Availability (Sampling)

In the latest "Proof is in the Pudding" session, we team up with Archetype to break down the essentials of Data Availability Sampling. We dive into how rollups and Ethereum's DA system work, explore the role of DA chains, and touch on the basics of verifiable sharding. This introduction is perfect for anyone curious about the foundations of data availability sampling and how these concepts are playing out in the blockchain world.

ZK/SEC October 02, 2025 1 min Read →

Part 7

Archetype x zkSecurity - Proof is in the Pudding: The Other Dark Forest (Offchain Public Keys)

In Session 07 of "Proof is in the Pudding," we explore the other dark forest, the realm of offchain public keys. We dive into zkLogin, ZK Email, and ZKPassport, examining how these protocols handle authentication and privacy. We also discuss the issue of unlinkability in privacy protocols and why replacing traditional signature verifications with zero-knowledge proofs could unlock more interesting and powerful ZK products.

ZK/SEC October 21, 2025 2 min Read →

Part 8

Archetype x zkSecurity - Proof is in the Pudding: Privacy in Payment Networks

In Session 08 of "Proof is in the Pudding," we explore how different networks have approached privacy over the years. From E-Cash and Monero to MobileCoin and Zether, we break down blind signatures, Pedersen commitments, stealth addresses, ring signatures, and more. This session provides a comprehensive tour of the techniques used to break linkability, hide addresses, and obscure transaction data in the name of privacy and safety.

ZK/SEC January 16, 2026 1 min Read →

Part 9

Archetype x zkSecurity - Proof is in the Pudding: ZK on Bitcoin

In Session 09 of "Proof is in the Pudding," we explore the intersection of zero-knowledge proofs and Bitcoin. We break down Bitcoin's UTXO model and Script limitations, then dive deep into approaches for verifying ZK proofs on Bitcoin, from MPC-based techniques to BitVM's optimistic verification with fraud proofs. We cover timelocks, the statelessness problem and Lamport signatures for state, Taproot, simulated covenants, BitVM 3 with hashlocks and garbled circuits, cut-and-choose security, and witness encryption (BABE).

ZK/SEC April 02, 2026 2 min Read →

Part 10

Archetype x zkSecurity - Proof is in the Pudding: Groth16

In Session 10 of "Proof is in the Pudding," we work backward from Groth16's famously compact verifier equation to explain why the protocol is shaped the way it is. We cover how R1CS constraints become polynomial identities, why pairings are needed to multiply hidden commitments, how random linear combinations and the Schwartz-Zippel lemma enforce witness consistency, and how the separating factors gamma and delta restrict which pieces of the CRS a prover can use.

ZK/SEC July 23, 2026 2 min Read →