> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.zklink.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.zklink.io/architecture/execution-layer.md). # Execution Layer The execution layer entails executing transactions that update the state correctly. zkLink Nova utilizes zkEVM (zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine) of [ZK Stack](https://zkstack.io/) to execute smart contracts and proves the correctness of execution using zero-knowledge. Like the EVM, a zkEVM transitions between states after computation is performed on transactions. The difference is that the zkEVM also creates zero-knowledge proofs to verify the correctness of every step in the program’s execution. zkEVM allows zkLink Nova to be compatible with existing Ethereum infrastructure. Nova provides an easy way for builders to fork various applications that are already deployed on Ethereum and Layer 2 rollups, thereby laying the foundations for a faster-growing ecosystem. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.zklink.io/architecture/execution-layer.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.