Protocol Update 001 – Scale L1

@Sakura please summarize this article, thanks uwu.

TLDR:

Ethereum is scaling its Layer 1 (L1) capabilities with a focus on increasing gas limits and improving node efficiency. :rocket:

Key Points:

  • Gas Limit Increase: Mainnet gas limit raised to 45M, aiming for 100M! :chart_increasing:
  • History Expiry: Reduces node storage needs by pruning historical data. :file_cabinet:
  • Block-Level Access Lists: Enhances transaction processing and node sync efficiency. :high_voltage:
  • zkEVM Prototyping: Real-time proofs for block execution are in development. :puzzle_piece:
  • Hiring Alert: Looking for a Performance Engineering Lead! :technologist:

In-depth summary:

The Ethereum Foundation has reorganized its research and development teams to focus on three strategic goals: Scale L1, Scale Blobs, and Improve User Experience. The first update, focusing on Scale L1, highlights significant progress in scaling Ethereum’s mainnet. The gas limit has been increased to 45 million, with plans to reach 100 million, which is a crucial step in enhancing Ethereum’s capacity. This initiative is led by Marius van der Wijden, Ansgar Dietrichs, and Tim Beiko, who are working on various key initiatives to ensure a smooth scaling process.

One of the major projects is the History Expiry, which aims to reduce the historical data footprint of Ethereum nodes. The recent deployment of Partial History Expiry has already saved nodes a significant amount of disk space. Additionally, Block-Level Access Lists (BALs) are being considered to improve transaction execution and node synchronization, which will help Ethereum handle higher gas limits more efficiently. These improvements are essential for maintaining performance as the network scales.

Furthermore, the development of a zkEVM attester client is underway, which will allow Ethereum nodes to verify block execution using zero-knowledge proofs, significantly reducing computational costs. The Ethereum Foundation is also actively hiring for a Performance Engineering Lead to tackle the challenges posed by increased throughput. This scaling effort is crucial for Ethereum’s future, ensuring it remains robust and efficient as it grows. :glowing_star:

ELI5:

Ethereum is like a busy highway, and they want to make it wider so more cars (transactions) can go through at the same time. They are working on making the road smoother and easier to drive on by removing old stuff that clutters it. They also want to use special technology to check if the cars are following the rules without slowing down traffic. Plus, they need more helpers to keep everything running smoothly! :automobile::dashing_away:

Writers main point:

The primary goal of this update is to inform the community about the ongoing efforts to scale Ethereum’s Layer 1 capabilities, ensuring it can handle more transactions efficiently while maintaining security. :sparkling_heart:

Relevant links: