Gemini Shifted Zcash Node Infrastructure to Zakura
The exchange migrated to the Zakura software to improve synchronization speed ahead of the NU7 network upgrade.
Updated on Sept. 30, 2026 in Cybersecurity
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Gemini has transitioned its Zcash node infrastructure from Zebra to the Zakura software. This update is designed to handle increased block processing requirements ahead of the anticipated NU7 network upgrade.
Why it matters
The upgrade is necessary to support the proposed reduction in Zcash target block spacing from 75 seconds to 25 seconds. By adopting Zakura, the infrastructure can better manage the higher block processing capacity required by the upcoming changes.
Zakura reached the Zcash chain tip in six hours, significantly faster than the 24 hours required by Zebra software. The new system utilizes pruned snapshots totaling 12 gigabytes to facilitate faster node recovery.
The players
Gemini
Gemini is a global cryptocurrency exchange and custodian that allows customers to buy, sell, and store digital assets.
Zcash
Zcash is a decentralized blockchain network focused on providing privacy and selective transparency for digital transactions.
The details
The transition enables faster bootstrapping for nodes through the use of pruned snapshots. This shift prepares the exchange for the NU7 upgrade, which proposes a significant reduction in target block spacing to increase the throughput of the Zcash network.
Timeline
October 6, 2026: NU7 testnet activation is planned.
October 20, 2026: The final decision on mainnet activation is scheduled.
November 5, 2026: The target date for mainnet activation.
The Tech Race
The move to Zakura reflects an industry-wide push to optimize blockchain node performance to meet the demands of faster transaction finality. By replacing legacy systems like Zebra, the network establishes a more efficient framework for the Zcash NU7 network upgrade.
Users can expect more reliable node performance and faster synchronization times as the network prepares for higher processing demands. These technical improvements ensure better network stability as Zcash undergoes its proposed block spacing changes.
The takeaway
Optimizing node infrastructure is a critical step for maintaining network health during major protocol upgrades. Organizations that proactively migrate to more efficient software are better positioned to handle the increased load of future blockchain developments.
What happens next
The NU7 testnet activation is scheduled for October 6, 2026, followed by a final decision on mainnet activation on October 20, 2026, and a target mainnet launch on November 5, 2026.
Further reading
Learn more about securing blockchain infrastructure on our Cybersecurity page.
Source note: This article includes information reported by TokenPost.
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