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modular blockchain: a pluggable solution to break performance bottlenecks
Modular Blockchain: Pluggable Solutions to Break Through Performance Bottlenecks
The development of blockchain technology faces the "impossible triangle" problem of scalability, decentralization, and security. Modular blockchain provides a new approach to solving this challenge by separating different functions of the blockchain into independent modules. This article will delve into the core concepts of modular blockchain, its main technical solutions, and its applications in the Ethereum and Bitcoin ecosystems.
Modular Blockchain Overview
Traditional monolithic Blockchains centralize all functions on a single chain, with everything from data storage to transaction validation handled by the same network. In contrast, modular Blockchains break down different functions into specialized components or layers, with each component responsible for specific tasks such as consensus, data availability, execution, and settlement.
The advantages of modular blockchain are:
Focus: Each module can be optimized for specific needs, providing more efficient services.
Flexibility: Developers can freely combine different modules according to project needs to create diverse solutions.
Scalability: By separating functions, it is easier to enhance network performance and transaction processing capacity.
Innovation Space: Modular design provides greater space for the integration of new technologies and applications.
The main components of modular blockchain
A typical modular blockchain system usually consists of the following core components:
Execution Layer: Responsible for handling smart contracts and transaction logic.
Data Availability Layer: Ensures the accessibility and integrity of block data.
Consensus Layer: Responsible for achieving agreement among network nodes on the order of transactions.
Settlement Layer: Ensuring the finality of transactions.
Modular Solutions in the Ethereum Ecosystem
Layer 2 technology
Layer 2 is an expansion solution built on the Ethereum mainnet, aimed at increasing transaction speed and reducing costs. It mainly includes:
Optimistic Rollups: Adopting an optimistic assumption, assuming all transactions are valid and only verifying in case of disputes.
ZK Rollups: Using zero-knowledge proof technology, calculations are performed off-chain and the proofs are submitted to the main blockchain.
Data Availability Layer Project
Celestia: Focused on providing data availability services, utilizing innovative data availability sampling technology.
EigenDA: The re-staking protocol EigenLayer based on Ethereum provides decentralized data availability services.
Avail: Developed by the Polygon team, it provides a modular data availability solution.
Settlement Layer Project
Dymension: A modular blockchain platform based on Cosmos, providing a framework for RollApp development.
Cevmos: Provides settlement layer services for EVM-compatible rollups.
Exploration of Modular Blockchain in the Bitcoin Ecosystem
The Bitcoin network, due to the limitations of its UTXO model and non-Turing complete scripting language, has a more urgent demand for modular blockchain scaling. Major projects include:
Merlin Chain: Supports multiple native Bitcoin assets and is compatible with EVM.
B² Network: adopts a modular design, including ZK-Rollup execution layer, B² Hub data availability layer, and Bitcoin mainnet settlement layer.
Future Outlook
Modular blockchain technology is moving from concept to reality, providing a solid foundation for building the next generation of decentralized applications. This "pluggable" design approach transforms blockchain into an open and scalable platform, where various services and functions can be easily combined like LEGO bricks.
With the maturity of technology and the expansion of application fields, modular blockchain is expected to play an important role in multiple areas such as gaming, RWA, and AI, promoting the blockchain ecosystem to develop in a more open, flexible, and secure direction.