Starknet asked STRK holders, through a community pool, whether the network should explore becoming an independent post-quantum Layer 1 (L1); move that could give it more control over security and data availability. It is not a vote to leave Ethereum: the poll is non-binding, and a Yes result would start research rather than trigger an immediate migration.
The case for exploring a change is that parts of Starknet’s security model still depend on Ethereum. The forum proposal says Starknet-controlled components can become quantum-resistant soon, while Ethereum-linked elements-including the bridge and data availability-remain tied to Ethereum’s timeline.
The central trade-off is greater cryptographic autonomy against the security, liquidity, bridge and ecosystem advantages of staying connected to Ethereum.
Should Starknet become an independent L1?
It’s time for the community to have its say.
STRK stakers and delegaters can now participate in the first, non-binding governance vote on this potential transition 👇https://t.co/R71MnnJLcg pic.twitter.com/6pCFSlK1VU
— StarkWare (@StarkWareLtd) October 15, 2026
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How Would An Independent Post-Quantum L1 Change Starknet?
As a Layer 2 (L2), Starknet operates in connection with Ethereum rather than running every part of its own security and data infrastructure. Data availability means the information needed to check and reconstruct network activity is accessible; an L2 that relies on Ethereum for this function is affected by Ethereum’s choices and upgrade schedule.
An independent L1 could give Starknet more direct control over its own security, consensus and data availability. Consensus is the process by which a network agrees on which transactions and blocks are valid. That control could help Starknet address components that the forum proposal says remain dependent on Ethereum, but independence would also mean taking responsibility for those functions itself.
The proposal points to Starknet’s existing use of hash-based STARK proofs and native account abstraction as parts of its quantum-security starting point. Account abstraction means accounts can be governed by smart-contract logic rather than relying on one signature scheme built into the protocol; the post says user accounts can adopt post-quantum signatures without a protocol upgrade. That is a meaningful design advantage, not proof that every component is already quantum-resistant. The broader threat to blockchain signatures is explained in this overview of post-quantum cryptography.
Why Does the Ethereum Connection Matter?
The security rationale is about control over timing: the proposal says Starknet’s Ethereum-dependent bridge and data-availability components follow Ethereum’s timeline, while an independent chain could control more of its own stack. But control does not come free. A standalone network would need to make its own arrangements for consensus, economic security, data availability and bridges-and prove those arrangements can work safely.
For STRK holders, the trade-off is between more autonomy and the risks of building and maintaining more infrastructure. Execution challenges, liquidity fragmentation, bridge security, tooling and the wider ecosystem could all shape how an L1 transition affects users.
Other blockchain migration proposals also show why governance approval and execution are separate hurdles; a comparable Layer 1 migration proposal offers context for the practical risks of changing a network’s direction. It does not establish what Starknet’s own transition would involve.
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Can Starknet Actually Leave Ethereum?
Starknet is exploring a path towards becoming an independent post-quantum L1.
A governance post is now live with a non-binding poll for STRK holders to share their views.https://t.co/89bUM2zTR2
— Starknet (@Starknet) October 15, 2026
The confirmed step is an exploratory, non-binding poll-not an approved Ethereum exit. If holders choose Yes, the proposal says research would begin, with more detailed proposals and polls to follow. The design and operation of independent security, consensus and data availability would remain central questions, alongside implications for liquidity, bridges and the broader ecosystem.
For now, the proposal keeps two points clear: STRK remains the token, and Ethereum bridges stay open. The poll closes after seven days, when its result will show whether holders support further research, prefer continued L2 work, or want the discussion to remain open pending answers.
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