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arXiv · 2510.23172

Optimizing Optimism: Up to 3.5x Faster zkVM Validity Proofs via Sparse Derivation

Mohsen Ahmadvand·Pedro Souto
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Abstract

The Optimism derivation pipeline is engineered for correctness and liveness, not for succinct validity proofs. A straightforward port to a zkVM imposes significant overheads, making validity proofs significantly more costly than necessary. We systematically identify inefficiencies in the current design, analyze their impact on proving costs, and provide a soundness-preserving redesign tailored to zk proving. Our redesign achieves up to 6.5x faster derivation inside zkVMs (3.5x overall speedup) while maintaining identical safety guarantees.

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Mohsen Ahmadvand, Pedro Souto. 2025-10-27. Optimizing Optimism: Up to 3.5x Faster zkVM Validity Proofs via Sparse Derivation. https://arxiv.org/abs/2510.23172

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