# Starknet potential transition to Layer 1 blockchain

> Live situation record from CLSTR: https://clstr.news/situations/starknet-potential-transition-to-layer-1-blockchain
> Updated: 2026-10-22T18:59:15.000Z. Sources: 22. Developments: 3.

Starknet is considering a fundamental architectural shift from an Ethereum Layer 2 scaling solution to an independent, standalone Layer 1 blockchain. This transition, which aims for completion by 2027, is intended to establish the network as a fully quantum-resistant infrastructure to mitigate security threats from future advances in quantum computing and artificial intelligence.

By operating as a sovereign Layer 1, Starknet seeks greater autonomy over its security upgrades and development roadmap, rather than being tied to Ethereum’s schedule. While the current Layer 2 model relies on Ethereum for settlement and data availability, the proposed move would grant the project more cryptographic control. The plan intends to maintain the native STRK token and keep the Ethereum bridge open.

On October 15, 2026, the network initiated a seven-day, non-binding governance vote to determine if researchers should study the technical and governance requirements for such a migration. On October 22, 2026, the community overwhelmingly approved the initiative, with 93.52% of voting power in favor based on approximately 3,200 votes. This result authorizes StarkWare and the Starknet Foundation to investigate the technical requirements and costs of becoming an independent blockchain.

The primary driver remains quantum security; while Starknet’s proof system uses hash-based cryptography, its current reliance on Ethereum for data availability and bridge communication is viewed as a potential vulnerability. The research phase aims to address this, noting that Ethereum’s target for similar base-layer protections is December 2029. Any actual transition to a Layer 1 would still require a separate, binding governance vote.

## Timeline

### 2026-10-22: Starknet community approves research into independent Layer 1 blockchain

Starknet voters approved a proposal with 93.52% support to research transitioning from an Ethereum Layer 2 to an independent, post-quantum Layer 1 blockchain.

5 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/starknet-community-approves-research-into-independent-layer-1-blockchain

### 2026-10-15: Starknet launches vote on potential transition to independent Layer 1

Starknet has initiated a non-binding governance vote to research potentially transitioning from an Ethereum Layer 2 to an independent, post-quantum Layer 1 blockchain by 2027.

9 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/starknet-explores-transition-to-standalone-layer-1-blockchain

### 2026-10-11: Starknet explores transition to independent quantum-resistant Layer 1

Starknet is considering transitioning from an Ethereum Layer 2 to an independent Layer 1 blockchain by 2027 to achieve full quantum resistance, sparking a major rally in its STRK token.

10 sources. https://clstr.news/cluster/starknet-considers-transition-to-layer-1-to-address-quantum-threats

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Cite as: Starknet potential transition to Layer 1 blockchain. CLSTR, https://clstr.news/situations/starknet-potential-transition-to-layer-1-blockchain