Ethereum Core Developers Deploy Dencun Upgrade on Goerli Test Network
The Ethereum core developers have successfully deployed the Dencun upgrade, which incorporates proto-danksharding (EIP-4844), on the Goerli test network. This deployment serves as a precursor to the anticipated launch of the upgrade on the mainnet.
Confirmation of the Dencun upgrade being forked on the Goerli testnet was provided by core developers in a livestream. However, the upgrade encountered some challenges, including a potential “chain split” due to issues with clients’ ability to sync with each other. Client teams will investigate the matter and issue a fix accordingly.
Introducing EIP-4844 and Proto-Danksharding
The central feature of this Dencun deployment is the introduction of EIP-4844, which brings forth a novel transaction mechanism known as ephemeral blobs or proto-danksharding. This mechanism enables Ethereum nodes to temporarily store and access off-chain data, reducing storage demands and lowering transaction costs for Ethereum dApps, particularly benefiting Layer 2 rollup chains.
Phased Approach for Deployment
In preparation for this transition, the development team has chosen a phased approach, starting with implementing the upgrade on various testnets. The Dencun upgrade has now been deployed on Goerli, followed by upcoming activations on the Sepolia testnet on Jan. 31 and the Holesky testnet on Feb. 7. The final release on the mainnet is expected by Q1 2024.
Hot Take: Optimizing Ethereum’s Scalability and Efficiency
The deployment of the Dencun upgrade with proto-danksharding marks an important step towards optimizing Ethereum’s scalability and efficiency. By introducing EIP-4844 and its transaction mechanism, Ethereum aims to reduce storage demands and lower transaction costs for dApps, providing significant benefits to Layer 2 rollup chains. The phased approach of implementing the upgrade on testnets allows for thorough testing and issue resolution before the final release on the mainnet. This progress showcases Ethereum’s commitment to continuous improvement and innovation in the blockchain space.