Efficiency of Zero-Knowledge Proofs: A Through Review and Analysis

Zero Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs) are cryptographic security techniques that allow secure data exchange without revealing secret information. This research study investigates and analyzes efficiency factors, robustness features, applicability, and uses, along with challenges for the implementation of these techniques, which are most important to achieving higher security. We categorize ZKPs techniques into three types: interactive, non-interactive, and succinct non-interactive arguments of knowledge (SNARKs). Different authors have examined prominent models such as zkSNARK, Ligero, Bulletproofs, Hyrax, Aurora, and Libra. Libra stands out for its outstanding efficiency, requiring a one-time trusted setup depending on the input size. The study explores various challenges in ZKPs to enhance their robustness. To solve problems like the trusted setup dilemma and quantum computing attacks, the research suggests making progress by integrating different models, improving efficiency, looking into new mathematical problems, creating more advanced cryptographic tools, and studying lattice-based cryptography for better security. The results highlight the need to overcome constraints and improve ZKPs security and effectiveness in practical setups to enhance their efficiency, and they will direct future research for privacy, security, and integrity in a variety of applications.