What is Aligned (ALIGN)?
Aligned is an infrastructure layer focused on reducing the computational expense of verifying zero-knowledge (ZK) proofs for Ethereum applications. Its native cryptocurrency, ALIGN, is used to pay for these verification services. By operating as an EigenLayer AVS, it inherits the security of Ethereum while offloading the heavy lifting of proof verification to a more scalable secondary layer.
How Aligned Makes ZK Proofs Affordable
Verifying a single STARK proof directly on Ethereum can consume up to a million gas, a cost that limits the practical use of privacy and scaling solutions. Aligned batches these proofs and processes them as an Actively Validated Service (AVS) on EigenLayer, aiming to slash verification costs by up to 90%. It supports a variety of proof systems, including STARKs and SNARKs, giving developers flexibility in how they build.
The project bundles its core verification engine with other essential tools, such as Proof Aggregation and Rollup-as-a-Service. This creates a ready-made infrastructure stack that allows enterprises and fintechs to integrate with Ethereum’s backend without having to stitch together complex cryptographic components themselves.
The ALIGN Token and Network Participation
ALIGN functions as the access token for the network's features. Users can opt for a pay-per-proof model or participate in a subscription mechanism by staking tokens for a set period to gain unlimited access. The network is protected by a dual-staking system that combines ALIGN with restaked assets, ensuring that those who secure the protocol can earn a portion of the fees generated from verification services.
