Zero knowledge meaning (also known as zero-knowledge proofs) is a verification mETHod that takes place between a prover and a verifier. In a zero-knowledge proof system, the prover is able to prove to the verifier that they have the knowledge of a particular piece of information (such as the solution to a mathematical equation) without revealing the information itself. These proof systems can be used by modern cryptographers to provide increased levels of privacy and security. This proof is often referred to as a ZK protocol.
The idea of a zero-knowledge proof first originated in a 1985 MIT paper, authored by Shafi Goldwasser and Silvio Micali. They demonstrated that it was possible to prove some properties of a number without disclosing the number or any additional information about it. This paper also concluded that interactions between a prover and a verifier could reduce the amount of information required to prove a given theorem.
In order for a ZK proof to be legitimate, two basic requirements known as completeness and soundness must be satisfied. Completeness refers to the ability of the prover to demonstrate knowledge of the relevant information to a high degree of probable accuracy. For the proof to be sound, the verifier must be able to reliably determine whETHer or not the prover is actually in possession of the information. Finally, in order to be truly zero-knowledge, the proof must achieve both completeness and soundness without the information ever being leaked between the prover and the verifier.
Zero-knowledge proofs are mostly used for applications in which privacy and security are essential. Authentication systems can incorporate ZK proofs to verify credentials or identities without directly revealing them. As a simple example, it can be used to verify that a person has a password to a computer system without the need for exposing the password.
A well-known use of zero-knowledge proofs in blockchain is the zero-knowledge Succinct Non-interactive Argument of Knowledge (zk-SNARK). Privacy-focused cryptocurrencies such as Zcash are thus able to offer blockchain transactions with increased levels of privacy to their users. ETHereum is also working with zk-SNARK proofs since its Byzantium update in 2017.
In conclusion, zero knowledge meaning is a verification mETHod that takes place between a prover and a verifier, and such a method provides increased levels of privacy and security.
