zk-SNARKs and zk-STARKs are both zero-knowledge proofs, a cryptographic method that allows one party to To prove something to another party without revealing any details.
The main difference is that zk-SNARKs require a trusted setup phase, while zk-STARKs do not. The trusted setup phase is a process where some initial parameters are generated by one or more parties and then destroyed. These parameters are used to create and verify proofs, but if they are not destroyed, they can be used to create fake proofs.
Another difference between zk-SNARKs and zk-STARKs is that zk-SNARKs are more concise and efficient, while zk-STARKs are more transparent and secure. zk-SNARK proofs are very short and therefore can be generated at low computational cost and verified quickly. In contrast, zk-STARK proofs do not rely on hidden assumptions or secrets and are theoretically resistant to quantum computer attacks.
While zk-SNARKs appear to be more scalable due to their fast proof verification, zk-STARKs are the more scalable solution because they generate proofs faster, Even though their proof size is larger. Additionally, zk-STARKs consume less gas when submitted to the Ethereum mainnet.