Blockchain Layers Explained !
In blockchain technology, layers refer to different levels of abstraction or functionality that work together to enable the secure storage and transfer of data. Each layer provides a different set of functionalities and services that interact with other layers to form a complete blockchain network. Here are some examples of layers in blockchain technology
- Application layer: This layer is the top layer of the blockchain architecture and includes the user interface, smart contracts, and decentralized applications (dApps) that interact with the blockchain network.
- Consensus layer: This layer is responsible for verifying transactions and adding them to the blockchain. It ensures that all nodes on the network agree on the current state of the blockchain.
- Network layer: This layer is responsible for managing the communication between nodes on the blockchain network. It uses peer-to-peer networking protocols to ensure that nodes can communicate with each other securely and efficiently.
- Protocol layer: This layer defines the rules and standards that govern the behavior of the blockchain network. It includes the consensus algorithm, the network protocol, and the data structure of the blockchain.
- Data layer: This layer is responsible for storing the actual data on the blockchain. It includes the blocks of transactions, the digital signatures that verify transactions, and other metadata associated with the blockchain.
What are layer 0,1,2 Blockchains ?
1. Layer 0(L0) Blockchain :- A Layer 0 (L0) protocol is a type of infrastructure that enables developers to create multiple Layer 1 (L1) blockchains, each designed to serve a specific purpose and cater to one or two dimensions of the scalability trilemma, rather than all three. L1 networks can communicate with each other, giving users the experience of using a single blockchain when, in reality, they are utilizing multiple. L0 networks provide developers with software development toolkits or SDKs that allow them to launch their own blockchains, also known as sidechains or L1s, which are connected to the L0 mainchain but operate independently. In essence, L0 acts as an infrastructure for launching new blockchains, similar to the Bitcoin or Ethereum networks. Some examples of L0 networks are Horizen, Cosmos, and Polkadot, each with their own unique implementation and approach for developers to launch their own blockchains.
2. Layer 1 (L1) Blockchain :- Layer 1 (L1) blockchain refers to the underlying or base layer of a blockchain architecture. It is the foundational layer that provides the fundamental components of the blockchain network, such as the consensus mechanism, network protocol, data structure, and the native cryptocurrency.
The consensus mechanism is the algorithm that governs how the network reaches consensus on the validity of transactions and maintains the integrity of the blockchain. Examples of consensus mechanisms used in L1 blockchains include proof-of-work (PoW), proof-of-stake (PoS), delegated proof-of-stake (DPoS), and many others.
The network protocol is the set of rules that governs how nodes in the network communicate with each other and share data. Examples of network protocols used in L1 blockchains include the Bitcoin protocol and the Ethereum protocol.
The data structure of a blockchain is the way in which transaction data is stored and organized. In L1 blockchains, transactions are typically stored in blocks that are linked together in a chain, creating an immutable ledger of all transactions on the network.
The native cryptocurrency of a blockchain network is used to incentivize network participants to validate transactions and secure the network. In L1 blockchains, the native cryptocurrency is often used as a medium of exchange and a store of value.
3. Layer 2 (L2) Blockchain :- Layer 2 (L2) blockchain refers to a secondary layer built on top of a Layer 1 (L1) blockchain, which is designed to enhance the scalability and efficiency of the underlying blockchain network. L2 solutions aim to alleviate the limitations of L1 blockchains, such as slow transaction processing times and high transaction fees, by offloading some of the processing tasks to the L2 layer.
There are various types of L2 solutions that can be implemented on top of L1 blockchains, including state channels, sidechains, and Plasma chains.
State channels are a type of L2 solution that enable off-chain transactions between two parties. Transactions are only broadcasted to the blockchain network when the channel is closed, reducing the number of transactions that need to be processed on the L1 blockchain.
Sidechains are another type of L2 solution that allow the creation of a separate blockchain that is connected to the main L1 blockchain. Transactions can be processed on the sidechain, which can have different properties and rules than the main L1 blockchain, and the final state is periodically committed back to the main L1 blockchain.
Plasma chains are a more complex L2 solution that use a hierarchical structure of child chains that are connected to a mainchain. Transactions are processed on the child chains and the final state is periodically committed back to the mainchain.
