Layer 2 | Binance Academy (2024)

Intermediate

Community Submission - Author: Antoni Paszke

Layer 2 refers to a secondary framework or protocol that is built on top of an existing blockchain system. The main goal of these protocols is to solve the transaction speed and scaling difficulties that are being faced by the major cryptocurrency networks.

For instance,Bitcoin andEthereum are still not able to process thousands of transactions per second (TPS), and this is certainly detrimental to their long-term growth. There is a need for higher throughput before these networks can be effectively adopted and used on a wider scale.

In this context, the term “layer 2” refers to the multiple solutions being proposed to the blockchain scalability problem. Two major examples of layer 2 solutions are the Bitcoin Lightning Network and the Ethereum Plasma. Despite having their own working mechanisms and particularities, both solutions are striving to provide increased throughput to blockchain systems.

Specifically, the Lightning Network is based on state channels, which are basically attached channels that perform blockchain operations and report them to the main chain. State channels are mainly used as payment channels. On the other hand, the Plasma framework consists of sidechains, which are essentially small blockchains arranged in a tree-like structure.

In a broader sense, layer 2 protocols create a secondary framework, where blockchain transactions and processes can take place independently of the layer 1 (main chain). For this reason, these techniques may also be referred to as “off-chain” scaling solutions.

One of the main advantages of using off-chain solutions is that the main chain doesn’t need to go through any structural change because the second layer is added as an extra layer. As such, layer 2 solutions have the potential to achieve high throughput without sacrificing network security.

In other words, a great portion of the work that would be performed by the main chain can be moved to the second layer. So while the main chain (layer 1) provides security, the second layer offers high throughput, being able to perform hundreds, or even thousands, of transactions per second.

Layer 2 | Binance Academy (2024)

FAQs

Layer 2 | Binance Academy? ›

A layer 2 refers to any off-chain network, system, or technology built on top of a blockchain (commonly known as a layer-1 network) that helps extend the capabilities of the underlying base layer network. Layer-2 networks can support any blockchain to introduce enhancements such as higher transaction throughputs.

What is Layer 2 in crypto? ›

A layer 2 refers to any off-chain network, system, or technology built on top of a blockchain (commonly known as a layer-1 network) that helps extend the capabilities of the underlying base layer network. Layer-2 networks can support any blockchain to introduce enhancements such as higher transaction throughputs.

Is Cardano Layer 1 or 2? ›

As legacy Layer 1 (L1) blockchain networks strive to become more scalable, leading L1 blockchain Cardano announced the release of the first Hydra head on its mainnet. This marks a major milestone for the network, paving the way for a new era of scalability on the chain.

Is Solana a Layer 2? ›

Eclipse To Launch First Solana Virtual Machine Layer 2 With Polygon.

What is Layer 2 protocol? ›

Layer 2 protocols or network L2 protocols are a list of communication protocols used by Layer 2 devices (such as network interface cards (NIC), switches, multiport bridges, etc.) to transfer data in a wide area network, or between one node to another in a local area network.

What are the best Layer 2 crypto? ›

Arbitrum stands as the top Layer 2 solution on Ethereum, boasting robust security, full smart contract support, and a vibrant DeFi ecosystem. With over $2.3 billion locked on the network, it's the most trusted and utilized Layer 2 platform. This high Total Value Locked (TVL) exemplifies widespread trust and usage.

What is a layer 3 crypto? ›

Layer 3 Blockchain

Layer 3 is represented by blockchain-based applications, such as decentralized finance (DeFi) apps, games, or distributed storage apps. Many of these applications also have cross-chain functionality, helping users access various blockchain platforms via a single app.

Is Polkadot a layer 1? ›

Is Polkadot a Layer 1? No, Polkadot is not a layer 1 blockchain. Polkadot is considered a layer 0 blockchain because it serves as a “metaprotocol” upon which other layer 1s (smart contract platforms and application-specific blockchains) are deployed.

Is Polygon a Layer 2? ›

Polygon is a Layer 2 blockchain that aims to help Ethereum with its scalability. By acting as a Layer 2 protocol, Polygon doesn't aim to duplicate Ethereum's functionality. Instead, it helps improve transaction speeds and lower costs for developers.

What stage is Cardano in? ›

Another notable feature was the release of the programming language Marlowe. As of Q4 2021, Cardano is still in the Goguen Phase. Bashō Phase: Named after Matsuo Bashō, a Japanese poet renowned for his haiku, the Bashō Phase is focused on optimizing both scalability and interoperability.

Is polkadot a Layer 2? ›

Polkadot (DOT): Connecting Various Blockchain Networks

DOT is a layer-0 meta protocol that enables developers to launch and describe various layer-1 protocols.

Is Shiba a Layer 2? ›

At its core, Shibarium is a Layer-2 blockchain solution. A Layer-2 solution exists on top of a Layer-1 blockchain. In this case, Shibarium is a Layer-2 solution existing on top of the Ethereum blockchain, the Layer-1 solution.

Is Tezos a Layer 2? ›

As Layer 2 solutions, rollups have two main building blocks: a protocol in Tezos which manages communication and security between layers. a daemon node which processes rollup transactions.

What is layer 2 for dummies? ›

Layer 2 refers to the data link layer of the network. This is how data moves across the physical links in your network. It's how switches within your network talk to one another.

Is WiFi a layer 2 protocol? ›

As a rule of thumb, WiFi (802.11) operates at the first two layers of the OSI model, in other words, the physical layer and the data link layer.

Why is layer 2 needed crypto? ›

Layer 2's (or L2s) increase the speed and reduce the cost of transacting on a blockchain. Layer 2's exist to address the scalability challenges of L1 networks, particularly the issue of high gas fees during times of network congestion.

Is Cardano a Layer 2 blockchain? ›

The Layer 2 protocol operates on the Cardano blockchain and Hydra was designed to improve Cardano's transaction throughput and overall efficiency of the blockchain. Hydra enables parallel processing of transactions and boosts the overall capacity of Cardano's blockchain.

Is Layer 2 only Ethereum? ›

A layer 2 is a separate blockchain that extends Ethereum.

How does that work? A layer 2 blockchain regularly communicates with Ethereum (by submitting bundles of transactions) in order to ensure it has similar security and decentralization guarantees. All this requires no changes to the layer 1 protocol (Ethereum).

What are some Layer 2 projects? ›

Top 5 Ethereum Layer 2 Crypto Projects To Check Post-Merge
  • #1 Polygon (MATIC)
  • #2 Arbitrum (ARB)
  • #3 Optimism (OP)
  • #4 Shibarium (SHIB)
  • #5 Loopring (LRC)
May 5, 2023

Is there a layer 4 in crypto? ›

Layer 4 is often called the interphase layer, one of the fastest-growing segments of the crypto world, and is where you place decentralized application entities (dApps).

What is layer 5 crypto? ›

The application layer is the fifth blockchain layer and is where most people interact with blockchain technology. This layer consists of smart contracts, chaincode and decentralized applications (DApps). Scripts, application programming interfaces (APIs), user interfaces and frameworks are all part of it.

Is Cardano a layer 3? ›

Building Cardano: Two layers of the Cardano blockchain

The Cardano ecosystem is built as a third-generation blockchain platform consisting of two layers — a settlement layer (CSL) and a computation layer (CCL) that serve as the fundamental components of every transaction.

Is Cardano a layer? ›

In addition to being a cryptocurrency, Cardano is a blockchain and a platform designed to run decentralized applications through smart contracts. This is, simply explained, software that lives on the blockchain. Cryptocurrencies with this feature are often called "layer 1" or "L1" cryptocurrencies.

Is chainlink a layer-1? ›

Oracles and smart contracts

That's primarily because Chainlink is not a Layer 1 blockchain like Ethereum, Solana , Avalanche, or Cardano. Instead, Chainlink is a decentralized blockchain oracle network that feeds off-chain real-world data to on-chain smart contracts.

What is layer 0 crypto? ›

Layer 0 is a blockchain network's first layer that allows seamless interaction with other protocols to create interconnected value chains.

Is Matic a sidechain or Layer 2? ›

Matic began with plasma sidechains, which are lighter and more secure sidechains. Like sidechains, a plasma chain is a separate blockchain that runs alongside the primary blockchain. In this case, Ethereum is the “primary” or “parent” blockchain.

Will Ethereum 2 replace Polygon? ›

The already existing partnerships and successful products are one reason why Polygon should not become obsolete with the introduction of Ethereum 2.0. Apart from that, according to the current knowledge, Ethereum will not be able to reach Polygon's top speeds and prices even after the update.

Is Matic an L2? ›

Matic Polygon is a L2 aggregator.

How low can Cardano go in 2023? ›

Cardano price prediction 2023: Cardano's price for 2023 according to our analysis should range between $0.38 to $0.57 and the average price of ADA should be around $0.47.

Where will ADA be in 5 years? ›

How high can Cardano go? The average price of Cardano could exceed $0.441116 this year. Within the next 5 years, the price of ADA is expected to rise above $2.00.

How high can Cardano go in 2024? ›

Cardano price prediction December 2024: Cardano's price for December 2024 according to our analysis should range between $0.52 to $0.6 and the average price of ADA should be around $0.56.

Which is better Solana or Polkadot? ›

In terms of transaction speeds, Solana is much further ahead of Polkadot. While Polkadot can reach around 1,000 transactions per second (TPS), Solana has a maximum speed of 65,000 TPS, making it one of the fastest blockchains on the market.

Is Solana better than Ethereum? ›

If you want to transact on the most secure blockchain, use Ethereum. The Ethereum blockchain is the more mature network and has been around since 2014, meaning it has had time to be optimized. If you only care about fast transactions and low-cost, use Solana.

What is better Polkadot or Cosmos? ›

While Cosmos offers easy interoperability between chains, Polkadot's sharded architecture and shared security model provide scalability and security. In terms of governance, Cosmos uses on-chain governance while Polkadot has a hybrid system that combines on-chain and off-chain mechanisms.

What layer is Doge? ›

Dogecoin, on the other hand, is more scalable via its layer-one protocol without the need for an extra network. The latter is perceived as better blockchain technology which typically should not rely on a third-party solution. The term layer one is used to define the primary blockchain architecture.

Is Uniswap a Layer 2? ›

A Layer 2 is a second network or blockchain built on top of the Layer 1 Ethereum blockchain while preserving the security and decentralization guarantees of Ethereum. The Uniswap v3 Protocol is currently launched on three Layer 2 networks: Optimism, Arbitrum, and Polygon.

Does Coinbase have Layer 2? ›

Base is an Ethereum-focused layer 2 blockchain launched by Coinbase in February. Pollak previously led all retail engineering at Coinbase, including building Coinbase, Coinbase Pro and Coinbase Wallet. In a past life, Pollak started Clef, a 2FA mobile app, and was an engineer at BuzzFeed.

Is Avalanche a Layer 2 blockchain? ›

Avalanche is a blockchain platform capable of general purpose smart contract execution. It is a base layer, or layer 1 (L1), which can connect to sidechains and support layer 2 (L2) solutions. Avalanche calls sidechains and L2s subnets.

What is layer 2 vs layer 1 crypto? ›

Layer 1 blockchains utilize methods such as changing the consensus mechanism, forking the chain, and sharding. In contrast, Layer 2 scaling solutions exist as state channels, nested blockchains, rollups, and sidechains. Changing the consensus mechanism, forking the chain, and sharding.

What is layer 2 and layer 3 crypto? ›

The goal of Layer 2 solutions is to increase the transaction capacity of the base layer by offloading some of its work to the Layer 2. Layer 3 refers to solutions that build on top of Layer 2, offering additional functionality and customization for specific use cases.

Is layer 2 only Ethereum? ›

A layer 2 is a separate blockchain that extends Ethereum.

How does that work? A layer 2 blockchain regularly communicates with Ethereum (by submitting bundles of transactions) in order to ensure it has similar security and decentralization guarantees. All this requires no changes to the layer 1 protocol (Ethereum).

What is layer 1 vs 2 vs 3 crypto? ›

In summary, Layer 1 is the base layer of a blockchain network which allows layer 2 blockchains to build on top of it. This decongests the main chain providing higher transaction speeds and lower fees. Layer 3 blockchain hosts decentralized applications (DApps).

Is Dogecoin a layer 1? ›

Dogecoin, on the other hand, is more scalable via its layer-one protocol without the need for an extra network. The latter is perceived as better blockchain technology which typically should not rely on a third-party solution. The term layer one is used to define the primary blockchain architecture.

Is Coinbase layer 1 or Layer 2? ›

Base is an Ethereum-focused layer 2 blockchain launched by Coinbase in February.

Is polygon a Layer 2? ›

Polygon is a Layer 2 blockchain that aims to help Ethereum with its scalability. By acting as a Layer 2 protocol, Polygon doesn't aim to duplicate Ethereum's functionality. Instead, it helps improve transaction speeds and lower costs for developers.

What is layer 4 crypto? ›

Layer 4 is often called the interphase layer, one of the fastest-growing segments of the crypto world, and is where you place decentralized application entities (dApps). UniSwap, IDEX, CryptoPunks, and MakerDAO are some of the most popular dApps that reside in Layer 4.

Is Cardano a layer 0? ›

Any changes and issues arising in the new protocol in layer 0 will also affect layer 1. It is also called an implementation layer. Examples of layer one blockchains are Bitcoin, Ethereum, Cardano, Ripple, etc.

What is layer 2 Coinbase? ›

Layer 2 (L2) is a network or channel that sits on top of a Layer 1 (L1) network like Bitcoin or Ethereum. L2's are designed to enhance the speed and reduce the cost of performing transactions on a blockchain.

Is Matic a Layer 2? ›

What is Polygon (MATIC)? Polygon is a layer 2 scaling solution on the Ethereum network. While it exists alongside the original chain, it creates a separate chain that is faster, maintains higher TPS (transactions per second), and lowers fees per transaction.

How many l2 blockchains are there? ›

List of 14 Layer 2 Blockchains (2023) - Alchemy. Tools include reporting, alerts, analytics, and application monitoring. Monitor transactions with request explorer, request sandbox, mempool visualizer.

Is Solana a layer 0? ›

Layer-1 (L1) blockchains, explained:

Well-known L1 chains include Ethereum, Cardano, Solana, Tezos, Algorand, among many others.

What is the best Web3 crypto? ›

Ethereum is one of the best Web3 crypto projects in the market and has long been the top altcoin to buy, cementing its place behind Bitcoin as the second-biggest token in the whole space.

Why is Layer 2 needed crypto? ›

Layer 2's (or L2s) increase the speed and reduce the cost of transacting on a blockchain. Layer 2's exist to address the scalability challenges of L1 networks, particularly the issue of high gas fees during times of network congestion.

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