Flow Blockchain Aims for 1 Million Transactions Per Second

Flow Blockchain has announced an ambitious plan to achieve 1 million transactions per second (TPS), positioning itself as one of the few Layer-1 chains aiming to scale without relying on sharding or Layer-2 solutions. This approach sets Flow apart in the blockchain architecture landscape, as it seeks to maintain composability across applications using native execution layers. Unlike modular designs, Flow's architecture is designed to scale both state and transaction processing simultaneously, managing a petabyte of data on a single global state without data fragmentation. This eliminates the complexity of cross-shard messaging, a common issue in sharded or rollup-based chains.

Flow's multi-node architecture is a key factor in its ability to achieve high throughput while preserving decentralization. The network separates roles into collection, consensus, execution, and verification, allowing it to boost throughput without compromising on decentralization. This balance is rare among Layer-1 protocols, and it contrasts with Ethereum's reliance on external scaling solutions, which can risk fragmented app interoperability.

In addition to its scaling ambitions, Flow has introduced Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility, allowing developers to port Solidity smart contracts directly to its network without rewriting code in Cadence, Flow’s native language. Cadence continues to power unique features such as gasless transactions and account abstraction. Flow's developer onboarding tools include testnet incentives, comprehensive documentation, and high-grant ecosystem programs, prioritizing usability for consumer-grade applications like games, marketplaces, and collectibles. The platform supports major projects such as NBA Top Shot, UFC Strike, and Mattel’s digital platform.

Flow's commitment to sustainability is evident in its energy efficiency. The blockchain operates using only 0.18 GWh annually, less than many corporate servers. With a block time of 0.8 seconds and a transaction cost of $0.000179, Flow ensures real-time affordability and leads among carbon-neutral Layer-1s for energy efficiency and cost. Flow's roadmap confirms its commitment to vertical scaling, building the chain directly without reducing security guarantees. This approach reinforces Flow’s thesis that consumer-grade Web3 requires speed, security, and a unified global state.