Ethereum News Today: Ethereum Co-Founder Buterin Advocates Minimalist Approach for Layer-2 Networks

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has proposed a minimalist approach as the key to the success of layer-2 (L2) blockchain networks. This suggestion comes in response to a call by Jason Chaskin, who leads app relations and research at the Ethereum Foundation, for layer-1 blockchains to transition into Ethereum layer-2s. Chaskin highlighted Celo’s recent transition as a successful example, noting that it allowed the network to reduce inflation, streamline its code, accelerate block times, and integrate with Ethereum, which boasts the largest developer community in the cryptocurrency space.

Buterin expanded on Chaskin’s remarks, advocating for L2 networks to leverage the strengths of Ethereum, including its security, data availability, and censorship resistance. He suggested that L2s should focus on their core functions: the sequencer, which determines the order of transactions, and the prover, which generates proof that transactions are valid and correctly executed. By doing so, L2s can achieve the trust minimization and efficiency that enterprise blockchain builders sought in the 2010s but failed to deliver. Buterin cited successful examples where Ethereum’s features have protected users’ rights when issues arise on the L2.

The remarks by Chaskin and Buterin indicate a strategic shift for blockchain networks. As Ethereum continues to strengthen its network, the duo suggests that the most effective approach for other networks might be to build on Ethereum rather than compete with it. This shift could lead to a more integrated and efficient blockchain ecosystem, where L2s can focus on their specific functions while relying on Ethereum’s robust infrastructure.

Buterin’s comments follow the Ethereum Foundation’s announcement of a plan to integrate a zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (zkEVM) into the network within a year. This integration aims to replace traditional block execution with zero-knowledge proofs, allowing validators to check ZK-proofs instead of re-running transaction blocks to verify them. This development further underscores Ethereum’s commitment to enhancing its network’s efficiency and security, potentially paving the way for more L2 networks to adopt a minimalist approach.