Manta Network: A Comprehensive Review of the ZK-Focused Modular Blockchain Platform

Manta Network has recently attracted the attention of cryptocurrency enthusiasts thanks to its innovative approach in developing zero-knowledge (ZK) applications.

Manta Network, a modular blockchain designed specifically for developing zero-knowledge (ZK) applications, was founded in 2020 by Victor Ji, Shumo Chu, and Kenny Li, who have backgrounds from Harvard, MIT, and Algorand, respectively.

The network, which consists of two main components, namely Manta Pacific and Manta Atlantic, offers a high-performance infrastructure with low transaction fees and a developer-focused approach.

With the vision of bringing in a new generation of web3 users and leading a new era of zkApp applications in the web3 world, Manta Network seems poised to reach an important milestone in the industry.

Manta Network Structure

Manta Network adopts a two-pronged approach, each of which is customized to meet specific Web3 development needs.

Manta Pacific, as part of layer 2 in Ethereum, was developed specifically to support Zero-Knowledge (ZK) native applications of the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). It utilizes Celestia technology to ensure data availability and zkEVM to improve scalability.

On the other hand, Manta Network, which operates as Layer 1 in Polkadot, focuses on Zero-Knowledge (ZK) compliance credentials. It introduced zkSBTs (Zero-Knowledge Simple Barter Tokens), which support a private, reusable, and auditable address system known as zkAddresses.

The Manta Atlantic stands out for its ability to interact with other projects without requiring complex cryptographic processes, facilitating seamless interoperability.

With these two layers, Manta Network combines advanced cryptographic solutions with easy-to-use developer tools, enhancing the security, scalability, and accessibility of blockchain technology in the ever-evolving Web3 ecosystem.

Funding and Support

Manta Network has successfully attracted investments from leading web3 funds such as Binance Labs and Polychain Capital.

Their participation in prestigious web3 accelerators, such as Alliance DAO and Berkeley Blockchain Xcelerator, demonstrates Manta Network’s commitment to growth and innovation in the crypto ecosystem.

Manta Network Key Features for Web3 Developers

Manta Network is a modular blockchain that provides Web3 developers with a range of exciting features. The following are its key features to know, among others:

1. Low Fees, High Scalability

Manta Pacific adopts Celestia technology and a modified OP stack to provide advanced technical infrastructure that offers high scalability and low gas fees.

With Manta Pacific’s Universal Circuits, the platform provides an unparalleled ecosystem for the development and deployment of Zero-Knowledge (ZK) applications and dApps.

This feature is particularly attractive to Web3 developers as it allows them to build more efficient and cost-effective applications, providing a significant boost to innovation in the blockchain space.

2. Developer–Friendly

Manta Network’s multi-modular approach gives developers the flexibility to use Manta’s personal identity tools across the chain, including in the web2 ecosystem and mobile applications.

By providing Manta’s SDK (Software Development Kits) and proof keys, an easy-to-integrate solution is offered to developers to connect identities on-chain with just a few lines of code.

This feature is particularly attractive to Web3 developers as it allows them to easily and efficiently integrate personal identities into their applications, providing ease of managing identities and providing an additional layer of security to their applications.

3. New ZK Use Cases

Manta Pacific provides “Universal Circuits”, a ZK library that makes it easy for developers to call Solidity smart contracts and dApps that use ZK.

Manta Pacific’s Universal Circuits are designed using zkContracts, such as zkShuffle used in blockchain-based applications.

This feature is exciting for Web3 developers as it allows them to utilize ZK technology in the development of innovative new applications, opening up opportunities to create more secure and privacy solutions within the blockchain ecosystem.

4. Non–Invasive Compliance

Manta Network presents zkSBTs (Zero-Knowledge Standardized Business Tokens) that facilitate verification without the need for cooperative engagement, while still maintaining privacy and security.

Examples of zkSBTs such as zkBAB and zkGalxe Passport provide chain-based KYC (Know Your Customer) verification without the need for passport scanning or uploading of sensitive personal information.

This feature is attractive to Web3 developers as it allows them to create more secure and private applications for users, resulting in a safer and more secure environment within the blockchain ecosystem.

5. Growing Ecosystem

The Manta Network ecosystem is designed to cover a wide range of applications, including DeFi, gaming, and social media, with a focus on delivering the best experience and value to users.

The Manta Ecosystem Grant Program was created to encourage and support the exploration of valuable new use cases, as well as provide solutions to address challenges faced by users.

This feature