Ethereum’s co-founder, Vitalik Buterin, has released a comprehensive analysis that delves deep into the intricate world of Layer 2 (L2) solutions on the blockchain. In a chain analysis report published on October 31, Buterin acknowledged the rapid growth of the L2 ecosystem, specifically highlighting the segments of ZK-EVM (Zero-Knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine) rollups implemented in top projects.
“The L2 ecosystem has seen remarkable progress,” Buterin said.
The Growing Diversity of L2 Scaling Solutions
Buterin’s report commended the enhanced security measures in place and identified L2beat as a reliable source for summarizing the state of each project. He observed the growing diversity within various L2 scaling solutions, driven by three major factors:
- The drive of L1 (Layer 1)
- Centralized projects
- Non-financial applications
“Not all activities require the same level of security,” Buterin acknowledged.
Buterin also pointed out that while Ethereum L1 users may be accustomed to the fees associated with transactions, new users wouldn’t, especially when transitioning from a fee-free environment.
Security and Scalability Capabilities of L2 Solutions
In his analysis, Ethereum’s co-founder further explored different L2 scaling solutions, notably Rollups, Validiums, and Disconnected Systems, based on their security and scalability capabilities.
“It’s essential to understand the risk and security associated with asset movements between L1 and L2 solutions,” Buterin emphasized.
Buterin highlighted the importance of a system’s ability to read the Ethereum blockchain in a trustless manner and proposed two potential solutions to address associated security concerns:
- Ensuring the top chain relies on finalized blocks
- Enabling the top chain to adapt in the event of a blockchain reversion
Buterin also mentioned the concept of transforming a separate chain into a Validium through a two-way validating bridge. However, he acknowledged that cases like handling 51% attacks or hard fork upgrades on Ethereum may require more than just technical solutions, possibly involving social commitment.
On a closing note, Buterin explored the security aspects of connectedness to Ethereum, particularly withdrawals to Ethereum and data reading. He believes that the value of projects deployed across various chains will create a transition pathway with Ethereum as technology evolves.
“Ethereum’s connectivity aligns with the contributions of ‘Ethscriptions’ and other L2 solutions,” noted ‘cryptocupid_eth’ on X (formerly Twitter).
“We need better standards and the creation of scalable systems and application-centric L2s to extend the base network,” suggested ‘SasuRobert’ on X.
