What are the difference between layers 0,1,2 and 3?
You've probably heard of it but you don't know what it's for.
Dear crypto investor,
Today I'm going to talk about the different layers of blockchain to understand the technology behind it.
The idea is to present them in a simple way that anyone can understand.
I will not go into detail on each of the layers but if you are interested please ask me.
First of all,
There are 6 layers in the logical architecture of the blockchain:
The data layer
The network layer
The consensus layer
The activation layer
The contract layer
The application layer
The basic architecture of blockchain is the :
- Data layer
- and the network layer
These are the 2 fundamental pillars of the general functioning of a blockchain.
Layer 0
Layer 0 is known as the data transfer layer. It allows the integration of blockchain networks with traditional networks (Internet).
It's just that but it is the basis of everything
Layer 1 :
Layer 1 corresponds to:
The data layer
The network layer
The consensus layer
The activation layer
It should also be noted that blockchains must meet several elements for them to be adopted.
It must be :
Scalable
Secure
Decentralized
It's the trilemma of blockchains
It was introduced by Vitalik Butherin, who demonstrated that it is impossible to have all 3.
The idea is to find an understanding between the 3.
However,
A very secure blockchain and often a slower blockchain for example Bitcoin.
A very fast and secure blockchain is often a less decentralized blockchain like Solana.
Layer 1 blockchains generally choose decentralization and security.
Example of Layer 1:
Ethereum
Bitcoin
Solana
Layer 2 :
Layers 2 will be applied as a layer on the layer 1 blockchain.
Their objective is to solve one of the unresolved points in the trilemma seen previously.
Layer 2 in general will rather attack the speed of transactions.
The principle of layer 2 is to overlay the blockchain to reduce the main blockchain's workload.
Example of layer 2:
Polygon Matic
Arbitrum
Immutable X
Cartesi
Layer 3
Layers 3 are the applications developed on the blockchain
First of all, you have to understand that a blockchain A and a blockchain B cannot communicate with each other.
Bitcoin cannot communicate with Solana, that's a fact.
Layer 3 will come in between blockchain A and B and therefore Bitcoin will be able to communicate with Solana.
It’s a very interesting project because it will allow different products and services to communicate with each other.
The main benefits of L3:
- Very low transaction fees
- Better performance
- Better control of the technology
- Better data security
Example of Layer 3 :
Uniswap
Yearnfinance
Alien Worlds (NFT Platform)
This layer is very complex and would deserve a more in-depth development.
Let me know if you are interested.
Here is also an image to summarize.
