Mina, the zero-knowledge-backed blockchain, is unique for several reasons. It uses zk SNARK proofs to maintain a constant size of 22 kilobytes, prioritizing effective verification and minimal storage requirements. The proofs are generated off-chain and stored on Mina’s mainnet. Due to its ability to roll up transactions, Mina is often referred to as the first operational zk rollup.

Mina is known for its dynamic "proof of everything" approach, combining off-chain computation with sequencing and proof generation. Ethereum layer 2 values Mina’s features, and the recent Berkeley upgrade has added programmability to the network. Decentralization remains a key concern for Mina, with decentralized applications viewed as unique collections of small rollups. Frameworks like Protokit are increasingly popular for developing essential Ethereum Virtual Machine applications.

While all zk rollups offer transaction privacy, recent rollups highlight the scalability benefits of zk technology. For privacy, proof generation should occur on the user’s device, such as a phone or computer. Mina extends distributed computation across multiple machines, managing large data volumes while ensuring privacy by keeping raw data off-chain. Privacy is a significant concern for higher application layers, but Mina’s base layer is highly transparent.

Mina’s transparency allows all primary blockchain transactions to be visible and accessible to participants, enabling anyone to verify transaction validity and data on the network. Fully Homomorphic Encryption (FHE) ensures computations are performed on encrypted data, keeping it encrypted throughout the process. FHE and multiparty computation are complementary technologies, with partial homomorphic encryption playing a crucial role in privacy applications enabled by the recent Mina mainnet upgrade.

The new upgrade aims to make Mina fully decentralized, enhancing openness and transaction verification. Mina has become synonymous with blockchain scalability and privacy, addressing challenges faced by traditional blockchain networks.

The Mina protocol uses zero-knowledge proofs to offer a distinct approach to blockchain design, creating an effective, privacy-preserving, and secure platform. It is built on decentralization, accessibility, and scalability, employing transformative cryptography and lightweight architecture. Mina supports fast, low-cost transactions while ensuring high security and privacy.