Currently, the most popular and widely adopted solution for scaling Ethereum is Layer-2 (L2) networks, specifically rollups. In a rollup, computations are performed off-chain, while transaction data is stored on the Ethereum main chain, where consensus is also established. This ensures the same level of security as the Ethereum mainnet.
In practice, an off-chain sequencer collects transactions, groups them into a block, and then sends the new state root and transaction data to the blockchain. Rollups can be classified into two main types:
Optimistic Rollups: In these rollups, the new state root is assumed to be valid, so no immediate verification is performed. However, it can be challenged within a certain period. If someone submits a valid fraud proof, the state root is reverted and the sequencer that submitted the invalid state is penalized.
Pros: They are a cost-effective solution.
Cons: Transferring assets between L1 and L2 is a slow process due to the challenge period. Additionally, implementing the fraud proof mechanism is complex.
zk-Rollups: In this approach, the sequencer sends a zero-knowledge proof along with the transaction data, allowing the validity of the new state to be verified mathematically without needing to check all transactions on-chain.
Pros: Verification is efficient and transaction times are faster.
Cons: Generating zero-knowledge proofs is computationally intensive and complex.
The role of blobs in Ethereum: Before the introduction of blobs, rollups stored all transaction data in calldata. However, this became a bottleneck as demand grew. Blobs, introduced via EIP-4844, are data packets designed to provide a more scalable way to store information. Unlike calldata, blobs are only retained for 18 days, allowing for more cost-effective and efficient storage.
Blobs function as auxiliary elements in Ethereum blocks. Their content is not accessible to smart contracts; instead, each blob is associated with a KZG cryptographic commitment, ensuring data integrity.
However, blobs do not provide truly on-chain storage. To reconstruct the correct state after the retention period, an external storage solution is needed.
Validium and off-chain storage solutions: Rollups that store data off-chain are called Validium. A strong candidate for archiving blob data and supporting this type of rollup is Ethereum Swarm. Swarm uses an erasure coding mechanism similar to blobs to ensure redundant storage across multiple nodes.
Swarm offers incentives for data availability, ensuring that crucial information can be retrieved when needed. Additionally, it allows for cost optimization by storing information off the Ethereum main chain.
As blockchain technology advances, it is crucial to evaluate which solutions offer the best balance between scalability, cost, and security. Tools like Swarm provide a viable alternative to blobs without imposing an unnecessary burden on the main network.
At Q2BSTUDIO, a company specialized in development and technological services, we understand the importance of adopting innovative solutions for blockchain scalability. We focus on implementing efficient and optimized technologies so that our clients can maximize security and performance in their projects on Ethereum and other decentralized networks.
