In the blockchain ecosystem, the concept of “layers” is used to describe different levels of the technology stack, each with its specific purpose and functionality. The most commonly referenced layers are:
1. Layer 0: Infrastructure Layer
Layer 0 acts as the foundational infrastructure of the blockchain. It includes the underlying technologies and protocols that enable the existence, interoperability, and scalability of Layer 1 blockchains. Layer 0 solutions focus on creating a network that can support multiple Layer 1 blockchains, ensuring they can efficiently communicate and transfer value between one another.
2. Layer 1: Base Protocol Layer
Layer 1 is the core blockchain protocol level, which includes blockchains like Bitcoin, Ethereum, and others. This layer deals with creating and validating blocks, recording transactions, and ensuring the security and decentralization of the network. Layer 1 protocols have their own consensus mechanisms (e.g., Proof of Work, Proof of Stake) and are the basic framework upon which transactions and smart contracts operate.
3. Layer 2: Network or Protocol Extension
Layer 2 solutions are built on top of Layer 1 blockchains to enhance their scalability and efficiency. They include technologies like state channels, sidechains, plasma chains, and rollups. Layer 2 solutions process transactions off the main chain (Layer 1), then record the final state to the main chain, significantly reducing the load and speeding up transaction times without compromising the security of the network.
4. Layer 3: Application Layer
Although less frequently discussed in the context of “layers,” Layer 3 refers to the application layer that is built on top of Layer 2 (and by extension, Layer 1). This layer includes the user-facing applications and services that utilize the blockchain, such as decentralized apps (DApps), decentralized finance (DeFi) platforms, non-fungible tokens (NFTs), and more. Layer 3 is where the end-users interact with the blockchain ecosystem through various applications designed for specific purposes.
Interaction Among Layers
The layers interact with each other in a hierarchical manner, where each layer supports the one above it:
This layered approach allows for specialization at different levels of the blockchain ecosystem, enabling developers to address specific challenges such as scalability, interoperability, and user experience, without compromising the core principles of decentralization and security.
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This page was last updated on February 16, 2024.
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