The Ethereum rollup considers BOLD to enhance security and allow anyone to become a validator, marking a significant step towards Stage 2 decentralization.
Arbitrum, a prominent Ethereum rollup, is making significant strides towards achieving full decentralization. The network is considering the implementation of BOLD, a new dispute resolution protocol, which is expected to enhance security and allow anyone to become a validator. This move would mark Arbitrum's transition to a Stage 2 Ethereum rollup, a significant milestone in its development.
Arbitrum is a layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum, designed to improve the speed and reduce the cost of transactions on the Ethereum network. It achieves this by processing transactions off the main Ethereum chain (layer 1) and then posting the results back to it. This helps to alleviate congestion on the Ethereum network, making it more efficient and scalable.
BOLD, short for "Batched Optimistic Layer Dispute," is a new protocol that Arbitrum is considering to implement. The primary function of BOLD is to enhance the network's security by providing a robust mechanism for resolving disputes. This protocol would make the validation process permissionless, meaning anyone could become a validator. This is a crucial step towards decentralization, as it reduces the reliance on a centralized group of validators and opens up the network to broader participation.
Currently, a temperature check is underway to gauge community support for the BOLD proposal. This process involves gathering feedback and opinions from the Arbitrum community to determine whether there is sufficient support to move forward with the implementation. If the proposal is approved, it would signify strong community backing and pave the way for the next steps towards full decentralization.
If BOLD is implemented, Arbitrum would be one of the first rollups to reach Stage 2, as defined by Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin. Stage 2 rollups are characterized by their enhanced security and permissionless validation, making them more decentralized and resilient against malicious activities. This would position Arbitrum ahead of other rollups in terms of decentralization, setting a new standard for the industry.
For users and developers, the transition to Stage 2 means a more secure and decentralized network. This could lead to increased trust and adoption of Arbitrum, as well as more opportunities for individuals to participate as validators. For the broader Ethereum ecosystem, it represents a significant step towards achieving the scalability and decentralization goals that are central to Ethereum's vision.