vac:acz:ift:2025q1-libp2p-mix-poc
Achieving mixnet’s PoC on Waku network, updating the RFC for libp2p compatibility, sharing results, and exploring further research for EF grants.
Description
This commitment entails achieving proof of concept (PoC) for the base functionality of mixnet (Waku over mix). Additionally, it includes updating the RFC by replacing the custom transport protocol with a new TCP-based transport protocol, enhancing mixnet’s compatibility with libp2p. The results will then be shared through a blogpost and a research paper, followed by researching the use case, features and further research topics to apply for EF grants.
Background
The primary objective of this anonymization layer is to serve as a cohesive anonymization solution for gossip-based projects, with a specific focus on integrating it with the IFT projects Waku and Codex.
Our initial exploration will revolve around extending our Tor push proposal. In this approach, messages will traverse through an anonymization network before being disseminated via gossip protocols upon exiting the anonymization network. Additionally, we aim to investigate the concept of embedding anonymization capabilities directly into gossipsub, rather than routing messages through a separate anonymization network before entering a standard gossipsub network operation.
Currently we view this anonymization solution as a P2P base layer, which the Vac P2P team will offer as part of libp2p. This effort could potentially spawn an incubation project. This effort would act as a basis for the Validator Privacy Network incubation project.
In 2024q4, we developed the core functionality of mixnet and integrated it with libp2p. To enhance compatibility, we saw fit to replace the custom transport protocol with a TCP-based one. Additionally, we implemented two proofs of concept: anonymized ping and anonymized plain gossipsub with new transport protocol.
Narratives
By utilizing this commitment, we will reinforce the Conduit of Expertise narrative by:
- Implement a poc over Waku PoC shows the base functionality on Waku network.
We will also strengthen the Premier Research Destination narrative by:
- Create a proposal for the Ethereum Foundation (EF) to apply for EF grants to promote the mixnet PoC and gain support from the Ethereum ecosystem.
- Publish a paper on arxiv.com that includes security/privacy analysis with applicability and revelance(product-market fit), offering improvements over Tor push.
- Publish two blogpost on vac.dev/rlog that includes update on transport layer of mixnet and Waku integration.
Additional Info
This commitment has been rescheduled from 2024q4 to 2025q1 due to the lack of engineering resource. For this, budget is requested for 2025q1, hiring process started.
Task List
RFC Update
- fully qualified name:
vac:acz:ift:2025q1-libp2p-mix-poc:rfc-update - owner: Akshaya
- status: not started
- start-date:
- end-date:
Description
Revise the RFC to incorporate a transport adapter transitioning from a custom protocol.
Deliverables
- A notion document as the new version of the RFC
PoC over Waku
- fully qualified name:
vac:acz:ift:2025q1-libp2p-mix-poc:poc-over-waku - owner: Akshaya
- status: not started
- start-date:
- end-date:
Description
Implementation the second PoC over Waku network by integrating the mixnet.
Deliverables
- PR to vacp2p/mix repo
Testing and Documentation
- fully qualified name:
vac:acz:ift:2025q1-libp2p-mix-poc:test-and-doc - owner: Akshaya
- status: not started
- start-date:
- end-date:
Description
Implement logging for debugging and demonstration and test module including functional tests for mix handlers, integration tests for libp2p protocol adapter, and End-to-end test of the mix network.
Developing documentation for individuals looking to integrate a mixnet into their projects.
Deliverables
- PR to vacp2p/mix repo with test module
- PR to vacp2p/mix repo with documentation.md
Blogposts
- fully qualified name:
vac:acz:ift:2025q1-libp2p-mix-poc:blogposts - owner: Akshaya
- status: not started
- start-date:
- end-date:
Description
Two blog posts: one delves into the challenges of integrating mixnet to Waku, emphasizing receiver anonymity and featuring practical examples, while the other discusses updates to the RFC through the incorporation of a transport adapter.
Deliverables
- Two blogposts to vac.dev/rlog
EF Grant Applications
- fully qualified name:
vac:acz:ift:2025q1-libp2p-mix-poc:ef-grant-app - owner: Akshaya
- status: not started
- start-date:
- end-date:
Description
This application involves two steps: first, compiling the proof-of-concept details, focusing on latency and incentivization requirements, and then initiating the EF grant process.
Deliverables
- A report document to Notion contains information of application details and updates