In the ever-evolving blockchain landscape, many layer-2 blockchain solutions are gradually showcasing themselves in the market. These solutions mainly resolve Ethereum’s scalability challenges and embody a multifaceted approach to addressing network scalability and transaction diversity challenges.

This blog delves into the basics of layer-2 blockchain networks with a list of top Ethereum layer 2 scalability solutions in 2024.

Understanding Layer-2

Layer-2 technology encompasses scaling solutions aimed at alleviating congestion by utilizing secondary blockchains. These secondary blockchains extend the main network’s capabilities while inheriting the primary blockchain’s security assurances.

Theoretically, layer-2 solutions have unlimited capacity, enabling substantial reductions in transaction fees and enhancements in processing speeds, thereby augmenting the overall efficiency of layer-1 networks.

How Does Layer-2 Function?

Layer-2 technology utilizes “rollups” to aggregate and process transactions within the environment before transmitting the updated data to the mainnet. This approach alleviates the Ethereum network from individually processing numerous DeFi transactions, as the computation is delegated to layer 2.

What are the Different Types of Layer-2 Solutions?

While various Ethereum Layer 2 scaling solutions exist, rollups are the most prevalent choice currently employed. Rollups streamline multiple transactions into a unified entry recorded on the primary Ethereum blockchain. These rollups come in two main types, including:

Optimistic Rollups

Optimistic rollups operate on the assumption of transaction validity but allow for challenges if doubts arise. A fault-proof mechanism is employed for scrutiny in cases of suspected invalid transactions.

Zero-knowledge Rollups

Zero-knowledge rollups utilize off-chain processing to bundle and compute numerous transactions, generating cryptographic proof. Subsequently, this compressed data is transmitted to the Ethereum mainnet as evidence of their legitimacy.

While Optimistic Rollups leverage economic incentives and game theory to validate transactions, Zero-Knowledge (zk) Rollups utilize cryptographic proofs to ensure security and privacy.

Top 10 Layer-2 Ethereum Scaling Solutions You Should Look Out in 2024

Among the diverse blockchain networks, there are some highly capable Ethereum-focused layer-2 solutions for scalability, including:

Arbitrum

• Arbitrum improves transaction speed and efficiency by shifting processing to a secondary blockchain while staying linked to the Ethereum mainnet.
• It also simplifies the deployment of Ethereum-compatible smart contracts, streamlining the migration of dApps and DeFi protocols and alleviating the Ethereum network’s burden.
• Utilizing Optimistic Rollups, it achieves swift, cost-efficient off-chain transaction processing, with fraud proofs guaranteeing transaction validity and preserving fast speeds while upholding network security.

Blast

• Blast harnesses optimistic roll-up technology to tackle Ethereum’s constraints.
• Blast aggregates multiple transactions off-chain, processes them within its layer, and forwards a concise summary of these transactions to the Ethereum mainnet (layer-1).
• This significantly lightens the burden on the Ethereum blockchain, leading to improved scalability and reduced fees.
• As a result, transaction costs linked to utilizing Blast-based dApps are notably diminished.

Optimism

• Optimism (OP Mainnet) is a swift, reliable, and scalable layer-2 blockchain solution designed by Ethereum developers.
• According to DefiLlama, Optimism is the third-largest Ethereum layer-2 solution, with $962.26 million locked into its smart contracts as of now.
• Designed as a minimalist extension to current Ethereum software, its EVM-equivalent architecture ensures seamless scalability for Ethereum applications.
• The things that function on Ethereum operate similarly on OP Mainnet but at a significantly reduced cost.

Base

• Coinbase introduced Base as an Ethereum layer-2 blockchain offering full EVM equivalence. This feature guarantees a secure, economical, and user-friendly space for developing dApps and Web3 projects.
• Like Arbitrum, Base utilizes optimistic rollups to reduce gas fees and expedite transactions by bundling them and submitting them collectively to the Ethereum chain for settlement.
• Additionally, Coinbase’s incubation allows developers to create dApps on the network by tapping into existing ecosystem features and products, such as fiat on-ramps and robust user acquisition tools.

Manta Pacific

• Manta Pacific distinguishes itself as a platform for ZK applications, providing scalability and security with the Celestia DA and Polygon zkEVM technologies.
• It simplifies ZK application development using solidity by offering programmable ZK as an EVM-native layer-2 solution.
• With Celestia and zkEVM for data availability and scalability, respectively, it delivers exceptional scalability and minimal transaction fees for ZK applications.

Mantle

• Mantle Network offers a robust technology stack tailored for Ethereum scalability while preserving EVM compatibility.
• This seamless integration enables effortless operation, allowing all Ethereum contracts and tools to function smoothly on the Mantle Network with minimal adaptation.
• Users can explore innovative Web3 applications, while developers benefit from an efficient, low-fee environment for deploying smart contracts.

ZkSync Era

• zkSync Era is another layer-2 scaling solution for Ethereum, utilizing zk-rollup technology to bundle transactions into proofs processed off-chain.
• It significantly increases transaction throughput while maintaining robust security and decentralization.
• Offloading computation off-chain reduces the main network’s load, storing most data off-chain.
• As EVM-compliant, it supports Ethereum’s smart contracts and assets for a seamless user and developer experience.

StarkNet

• Starknet utilizes STARK proofs, a form of zero-knowledge proof, for off-chain transaction validation.
• It boasts remarkable speed, with a potential throughput of millions of transactions per second.
• It drastically reduces transaction fees, making blockchain interactions nearly cost-free.
• It also offers a developer-friendly environment with the Cairo programming language and fosters a growing ecosystem of dApps.

Linea

• Linea, developed by Consensys, employs cutting-edge tech such as ZK proofs and off-chain computation, serving a scalable layer-2 solution for Ethereum.
• Its zkEVM rollup network ensures compatibility with smart contracts, enabling smooth integration with Ethereum’s ecosystem.
• Developers can easily create scalable DApps while users enjoy faster transactions and lower fees.
• Linea signifies Ethereum’s progression toward efficiency and broader adoption in the blockchain space.

Metis

• Metis (METIS), also known as Metis Andromeda, stands out as a layer-2 platform for Ethereum with unique attributes.
• These include Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) equivalence, complete off-chain decentralization, decentralized storage, and a hybrid roll-up approach.
• Unlike other layer-2 platforms that boast EVM-compatible processing engines, Metis sets itself apart with its Metis Virtual Machine, ensuring near-perfect compatibility with Ethereum.

Wrapping Up

In conclusion, layer-2 blockchains promise even faster transaction times and reduced costs than layer-1, fostering the growth of new applications, especially in DeFi. These scaling solutions are pivotal in shaping a multichain ecosystem, requiring developers to uphold blockchain principles of security, decentralization, and scalability without compromise.

With the comprehensive selection of the top scaling solutions above, you can navigate to the one that fulfills your needs. Approach a reputed blockchain development company and enter the refreshing Web3 world today!