What is Aztec?

Aztec is a Layer 2 solution on Ethereum focused on enhancing user privacy. It was founded by a team that created PLONK, a SNARK-based proving system introduced in 2019. PLONK has influenced various blockchain projects, establishing a category of proving systems known as PLONKish. Aztec's technology includes Noir, a programming language designed for creating zero-knowledge circuits, which has grown to become a notable tool in zk development with over 500 GitHub projects.

The platform has attracted institutional interest, having been tested by JP Morgan for its Quorum blockchain operations. This interest indicates Aztec's capabilities beyond research, positioning it as a viable option for privacy-preserving solutions in traditional finance and other sectors. Aztec's infrastructure supports initiatives like the Taurus confidential token standard, suggesting its role in developing regulated financial applications.