ZKsyncPrice

(ZK)

ZKsync Lite, the network's initial version, primarily supported simple payment transactions and basic token swaps. In contrast, ZKsync Era is the current mainnet, offering full EVM compatibility. This crucial upgrade enables the deployment and operation of complex smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). ZKsync Lite is scheduled for deprecation in 2026, making ZKsync Era the primary focus for all future development and user interaction.

The ZK token serves as the native utility and governance token within the ZKsync ecosystem. Its primary use cases involve empowering holders to participate in protocol governance by voting on proposed upgrades via ZK Nation. Additionally, ZK tokens can be used to pay for transaction fees, leveraging the network's native account abstraction features, and to engage in staking activities to further support network security and operations.

Exclusion from the ZK airdrop was typically due to strict eligibility criteria, including "value scaling" and robust sybil-detection mechanisms. Users needed to meet specific activity thresholds, such as bridging a minimum value of assets to ZKsync Era or interacting with designated decentralized applications. A common reason for exclusion was solely using ZKsync Lite without engaging with the more advanced ZKsync Era network, or having an allocation below the minimum threshold of 450 ZK tokens. The allocation formula also factored in the Time-Weighted Average Balance (TWAB) of assets on Era.

No, the official claim window for the ZK airdrop has concluded. The deadline for claiming ZK tokens was January 3, 2025. All tokens that remained unclaimed after this date were subsequently returned to the Token Assembly. These returned tokens are designated for future community-driven initiatives and ecosystem development, ensuring they continue to support the growth and engagement of the ZKsync community.

The "ZKnomics" revamp is a significant proposal designed to enhance the ZK token's utility, shifting it from solely governance-focused to incorporating robust economic utility. This initiative aims to allocate a portion of the protocol's transaction fees to facilitate token buybacks, token burns, and staking rewards for participants. By implementing these mechanisms, "ZKnomics" intends to transform the ZK token into a value-accruing asset, directly benefiting stakers and contributing to the token's long-term sustainability and economic appeal within the ecosystem.

Following the significant "Atlas" upgrade implemented in October 2025, the ZKsync network has achieved remarkable improvements in processing speed and efficiency. The network is now capable of handling an impressive throughput ranging from 15,000 to 43,000 transactions per second (TPS). This enhanced performance is complemented by near-instant transaction finality, significantly improving the user experience for dApps and everyday transactions on the ZKsync Era network.