Aleo May 2024 Updates

Anticipating a Secure Future for the Aleo Network

The Aleo Network is on the brink of a groundbreaking transformation. Our vision is a network that handles billions of transactions and data points with uncompromised security and efficiency. Achieving this requires robust cryptographic logic and consensus mechanisms ready from the outset. Together with our ecosystem partners, we’re meticulously working towards meeting our stringent acceptance criteria and testing methodologies to ensure the highest standards of security.

Progress Since March: Enhancements and Implementations

Since the last update in March, Aleo have made significant strides towards our mainnet launch. Key highlights include:

1. Implementation of ARC-0037 and ARC-0038: In collaboration with StorSwift, Demox Labs, and Puzzle, these proposals have bolstered security and usability for validators and delegators. They also introduced a new, program-based system for token delegation, or “staking.”
2. Protocol Updates: Aleo have integrated previous audit fixes, incorporated a fully-synchronous BFT assumption into Narwhal-Bullshark implementation, updated the foundational credits.aleo program, and improved client sync performance.
3. Extensive Testing: Aleo has validated over 90% of our test cases across multiple environments, including a closed “DevNet” and a semi-open “CanaryNet.” Team also tested the Coinbase Puzzle on DevNet and created cannons for various transaction types to facilitate automated testing.

Testing in Progress: ARC-0020

We are currently testing ARC-0020, a new token standard crucial for secure DeFi applications on the Aleo Network. ARC-0020 introduces several key features:

• A one-step approval process for off-chain signatures.
• The ability to send private tokens to smart contracts.
• The capability to connect token contracts to company websites using digital signatures.

While similar to the popular ERC20 standard, ARC-0020 emphasizes security and efficiency, replacing on-chain approvals with off-chain signatures, thus enhancing data security.

After extensive community discussions, Aleo finalized the design of ARC-0020. Commenting and voting are now open on the Aleo Governance platform. Aleo also added unit testing and trialed the initial implementation with ecosystem builders, aiming for soon integration.

Mainnet Test Plan: Transparent and Rigorous

Two weeks ago, Aleo committed to transparent updates on our progress towards the mainnet. Team believes in online privacy and are dedicated to creating a network that is programmable, private, and permissionless. After consultations with ecosystem partners, Aleo defined the essential features and minimum acceptance criteria for a confident mainnet launch.

Key Features and Testing:

AleoBFT Consensus:

• Combines proof-of-stake finality with proof-of-work incentives.
• Aims for instant block confirmation, secure and resilient consensus, and robust Byzantine fault tolerance.

Client Sync:

• Ensures participants have a consistent view of the global state.
• Utilizes CDN snapshots for rapid updates and peer-to-peer gossip for efficient data sharing.

Private & Public Transactions:

• Supports zero-knowledge proofs for value transfers and transparent state updates.

Program Deployments:

• Enables users to create and deploy new Aleo programs, expanding our ecosystem.

Coinbase Puzzle:

• Incentivizes advancements in zero-knowledge proof technology through proof-of-work-type puzzles.

Staking (ARC-0038):

• Implements a secure staking protocol with Demox Labs leading the effort.

Validator/Worker Separation (ARC-0037):

• Aims to enhance security for validators by separating withdrawal addresses.

Robust Network Testing

Aleo ecosystem partners, including Demox Labs, Monadicus, Supranational, Puzzle, and Kryha, have extended the testing protocol to ensure network readiness. Team has introduced a range of testing tools and launched a canary network to test under realistic conditions.

Aleo testing environments include:

• DevNet: Managed by Aleo Network Foundation and Provable, where initial features are tested.
• CanaryNet: A semi-open network for testing under realistic conditions.
• Upcoming Testnet: A fully open and permissionless network approximating the mainnet.

What’s Next

Aleo journey to mainnet has been a collaborative effort with the community from the start. As Aleo approach the launch, team is working closely with the partners to ensure the network meets user needs on day one and beyond. Stay updated on our progress through this blog and join the Discord for regular updates from our community calls.

Together, we’re building a secure, private, and permissionless future with the Aleo Network.