This proposal seeks funding to apply the Ziggurat Network Testing and Stability Framework to Polkadot. You can view the whole proposal here.

A Ziggurat is a rectangular stepped tower that uses precise measurements to ensure that each foundation can support the layers above.

This metaphor can be applied to network testing by defining three layers:

1. Conformance: adherence to the network protocol
2. Performance: healthy throughput under pressure
3. Resistance: the withstanding of malicious behavior

Ziggurat, by Equilibrium, is a set of tools that allows node developers to test these three layers extensively and ensure that each new release does not introduce bugs, performance bottlenecks, or security flaws.

As mentioned in the conclusion of the recent Trail of Bits report: It’s only a matter of time before a blockchain network is completely toppled by a network-level hack. This proposal will detail why this work is critical, and how we will go about solving it.

Thank you for your consideration.