
Matter Labs intends to phase out ZKsync Lite, the initial version of its Ethereum layer-2 network, as announced by the team in a post on X over the weekend.
This transition, set for early 2026, is framed as a planned conclusion for an early proof-of-concept that played a crucial role in validating their zero-knowledge rollup design choices before the launch of newer systems.
Launched in 2020, ZKsync Lite focused on basic token transfers, but it became less significant when developers introduced ZKsync Era in March 2023, a more sophisticated zkEVM rollup that currently underpins the project’s expansive ZK Stack roadmap.
For now, the Lite network will remain operational, ensuring that funds are secure and withdrawals to the Ethereum mainnet are still possible, the team confirmed. A comprehensive migration plan and shutdown timeline will be shared next year.
“ZKsync Lite was a pioneering proof-of-concept and validated essential ideas for constructing production-level ZK systems. It achieved its purpose: demonstrating what’s feasible and setting the stage for the next generation,” the team stated on X.
Read more: Matter Labs Opens zkSync Era to Users, Claiming First in ‘Zero Knowledge’ Tech on Ethereum
