Dusk Network is a privacy-first Layer-1 blockchain built for regulated finance, real-world assets (RWAs), and compliant DeFi. The recent major upgrades center around DuskEVM -- its Ethereum Virtual Machine-compatible execution layer -- launched on mainnet in early 2026 (following testnet rollouts and the DuskDS L1 upgrade in Dec 2025).
Here's the breakdown:
Modular Architecture Evolution
Dusk shifted to a three-layer modular stack in 2025/2026 for better scalability, developer-friendliness, and privacy:
DuskDS - Core settlement, consensus, data availability layer (upgraded Dec 2025 for faster performance & lower latency).
DuskEVM - EVM-equivalent layer for standard Solidity smart contracts (using familiar tools like Hardhat, MetaMask, Foundry).
DuskVM - Upcoming privacy-focused VM (WASM-based, ZK-friendly) for advanced confidential apps.
This separation lets devs choose: quick onboarding via EVM or deep privacy via native Rust contracts.
Here are key visuals of the multilayer evolution:
Key DuskEVM Features & Upgrades
Full EVM Compatibility - Deploy Ethereum-style dApps with zero friction. Gas paid in $DUSK.
Built-in Privacy via Hedger - Optional module using Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs) + Homomorphic Encryption (HE) for confidential transactions that remain auditable by regulators (selective disclosure). Perfect for hiding sensitive data while enabling compliance.
Regulatory Edge - Designed for institutions: supports MiCA/EU rules, partnerships like NPEX (tokenizing real securities), Chainlink for oracles/interoperability.
Performance Boosts - Recent testnet upgrades improved gas pricing (balanced for simple vs. complex txs), reduced latency (~40% in some cases), and enabled community tools like PieSwap DEX.
DuskEVM bridges the gap: Ethereum devs get easy entry, while inheriting Dusk's privacy + compliance strengths -- no more choosing between transparency or full privacy.
Here's a look at Dusk's privacy & consensus foundations:
This upgrade is a big catalyst for $DUSK -- attracting Solidity devs, DeFi liquidity, and institutional RWAs in 2026.
DYOR -- the regulated privacy narrative is heating up! What dApps do you want to see on DuskEVM first? #dusk @Dusk
