The Upcoming Duncan Upgrade and its Impact on Layer 2 Solutions
The upcoming Duncan upgrade on Ethereum, set to be released in mid-March, is generating excitement among Ethereum enthusiasts due to its introduction of “proto-danksharding.” This upgrade, also known as EIP-4844, has the potential to enhance Layer 2 solutions like zkSync, Optimism, Arbitrum, and others, making it a crucial development for their future.
Scalability Boost with Proto-Danksharing
Proto-danksharing aims to incorporate off-chain ‘data blobs’ into Ethereum transactions without affecting block processing times. This feature is expected to significantly increase the scalability of Layer 2s on the network by providing them with greater data capacity.
Reduced Transaction Costs on Layer 2s
One of the major benefits of the EIP-4844 upgrade will be a substantial reduction in transaction fees. Anthony Rose, head of engineering at Matter Labs, predicts that after Duncan, transaction fees on zkSync could potentially decrease nearly ten-fold, bringing the average fee per transaction to under $0.10.
Leveraging Boojum for Performance
Matter Labs has implemented code enhancements to zkSync in line with EIP-4844, focusing on performance improvements and the ability to batch and verify transactions. Additionally, they have introduced Boojum, a STARK-based proof system that allows for more data compression and publishing to the Ethereum mainnet within Layer 2 batches.
A More Cost-Efficient Future
With the combination of the Duncan upgrade and Boojum, zkSync’s batches will become larger and transactions will become cheaper. This cost efficiency will further enhance the scalability and affordability of Layer 2 solutions on Ethereum.
Hot Take: The Duncan Upgrade Revolutionizes Layer 2 Scalability
The upcoming Duncan upgrade on Ethereum brings the promise of enhanced scalability for Layer 2 solutions. With the introduction of proto-danksharding and the incorporation of off-chain data blobs, Layer 2s like zkSync are poised to utilize increased data capacity and reduce transaction costs. The combination of EIP-4844 and the implementation of Boojum by Matter Labs is set to revolutionize the performance and affordability of Layer 2 networks. As the upgrade approaches, Ethereum enthusiasts eagerly anticipate the positive impact it will have on the future development and adoption of Layer 2 solutions.