Vitalik Buterin: Only “Stage 1+” Layer 2 Rollups Will Be Highlighted in 2024
Vitalik Buterin : thereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin announced a significant shift in how he will discuss Layer 2 rollups in public communications, starting next year. This new approach is aimed at promoting decentralization among Layer 2 solutions on the Ethereum network.
Buterin’s New Stance on Layer 2 Rollups
Beginning in 2024, Buterin stated that he will only mention Layer 2 solutions that achieve “stage 1+” in decentralization. This change will be applied to all of his public communications, including blogs and talks. The goal is to support and encourage decentralized solutions in the expanding Layer 2 ecosystem.
Buterin explained that exceptions would be granted to particularly innovative new projects during a short grace period, allowing them time to meet the decentralization criteria. However, he emphasized that personal relationships or investments would not affect his stance on which technologies to highlight. “It doesn’t matter if I invested, or if you’re my friend; stage 1 or bust,” he wrote on X.
What is “Stage 1+” in Decentralization?
The “stage 1+” milestone refers to a level of decentralization where a council must reach a 75% consensus to override the proof system. Additionally, no fewer than 26% of the council members must be independent of the rollup development team. This structure is designed to enhance security and decentralization, two critical pillars of Ethereum’s Layer 2 rollups.
Buterin described this as a “very reasonable moderate milestone” and believes it’s a necessary evolution for the security of Layer 2 networks. Currently, many Layer 2 rollups built on Ethereum have yet to meet this stage, largely due to the complexity involved in achieving fault-proof mechanisms. The only exception so far is the optimistic rollup Arbitrum, which has already reached stage 1 decentralization.
ZK Rollups Making Progress Towards Stage 1
In addition to the established optimistic rollups, Buterin pointed out that teams working on ZK rollups have reported steady progress towards meeting stage 1 criteria. Several of these teams have indicated they are on track to reach this milestone by the end of 2023, setting the stage for a more secure and decentralized future for Layer 2 rollups.
Moving Away from “Glorified Multi-Sigs”
Buterin also addressed the need to move away from less secure systems he referred to as “glorified multi-sigs.” These systems lack the robust cryptographic security that decentralized rollups require. He called for a stronger focus on trust frameworks built on cryptographic principles rather than reliance on simplified, more centralized solutions.
Buterin’s push for this shift marks a clear move toward enhancing trust and security across the Ethereum ecosystem, emphasizing that true decentralization is the future of Layer 2 technologies.
Conclusion
Vitalik Buterin’s decision to highlight only stage 1+ decentralized Layer 2 solutions from 2024 signals a pivotal moment for the Ethereum network. As optimistic and ZK rollups race to achieve greater security and decentralization, Buterin’s focus on these criteria could accelerate the progress of Layer 2 solutions, driving further adoption and security across the Ethereum ecosystem.
This approach not only reinforces the importance of decentralization but also underscores the ongoing development within the Ethereum community to create more secure and scalable solutions for users worldwide. As Layer 2 rollups continue to evolve, Buterin’s criteria will likely serve as a benchmark for the future of Ethereum’s scalability efforts.
FAQ: Vitalik Buterin’s Shift in Focus to Decentralized Layer 2 Rollups
What change did Vitalik Buterin announce regarding Layer 2 rollups?
Vitalik Buterin announced that starting in 2024, he will only highlight Layer 2 rollups that achieve “stage 1+” decentralization in his public communications, including blogs and talks. He aims to promote solutions that prioritize decentralization and security.
What qualifies as a “stage 1+” decentralized Layer 2 rollup?
A “stage 1+” decentralized rollup must meet specific criteria, including requiring a 75% consensus among a council to override the proof system. Additionally, at least 26% of council members must be independent of the rollup’s development team, ensuring increased security and decentralization.
Why is Vitalik Buterin focusing on “stage 1+” rollups?
Buterin believes that decentralization is essential for the long-term security and trustworthiness of Layer 2 rollups. He wants to encourage projects to move away from “glorified multi sigs” and adopt more secure cryptographic systems.
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