Understand the project
Practical overview
When it fits
Use Ethrex when you need a self-hosted Rust execution client for Ethereum L1 or L2 work, especially when the design needs integrated zero-knowledge proving support or a modular base for rollup development.
Who it is for
- Ethereum node operators
- Rust blockchain infrastructure developers
- Layer 2 and rollup builders
- Engineers working with Ethereum execution and zero-knowledge proving
Documented uses
- Run an Ethereum Layer 1 execution client.
- Run an Ethereum Layer 2 execution client.
- Build an Ethereum-compatible rollup execution environment.
- Develop or test ZK-oriented Ethereum execution infrastructure.
- Integrate Ethereum block execution with supported zkVM proving backends.
Before you choose
Requirements & limits
The repository is public and licensed under Apache-2.0. Documentation is hosted in the repository and at docs.ethrex.xyz. The documented target environments include Linux, CLI and self-hosted server use.
- L1 and L2 are supported as distinct client modes.
- The implementation is written in Rust and uses a modular, ZK-native design.
- The L2 architecture supports SP1, RISC Zero and TEEs as proving options.
- The project documents integrations with SP1, RISC Zero, ZisK and OpenVM for proving Ethereum block execution.
- The repository is public and Apache-2.0 licensed.
Check current requirements in the official documentation. Source-based guidance does not mean OpenViST has run or independently tested this project.
Evidence and transparency
Sources & review
Source record details
- Source availability
- Active
- Sources checked
- 2 October 2026
- Original website title
- lambdaclass/ethrex · Official homepage title · retained in its source language