The upcoming Dencun software upgrade for Ethereum aims to implement significant network modifications and reduce operating costs, particularly for Layer 2 platforms. This development may encourage open accessibility, which could spark innovation within the Ethereum ecosystem and affect gaming, DeFi, and other industries.
Effect of Dencun Upgrade on Layer 2 Networks
Combining elements of the “Deneb” and “Cancun” updates, the Dencun upgrade offers a novel approach to data storage within the Ethereum network. Ethereum has historically been a data storage platform for Layer 2 blockchains, including well-known chains like Arbitrum, Polygon, and Base (of Coinbase Global Inc.).
This method, while safe, has led to high expenses for the permanent storing of data across all Ethereum nodes. These costs are anticipated to decrease with the introduction of “blobs” as a new data repository, bringing transaction prices down from $1 to pennies and occasionally even less than a cent.
This reduction is a significant adjustment and technical improvement that should significantly benefit the end-user experience. In contrast to past updates, like the September 2022 Merge, which decreased Ethereum’s energy consumption, these do not directly impact users, according to Roberto Bayardo, an engineer at Coinbase who works on the Base team. Conversely, customers feel Dencun’s effect directly, which could eventually result in user engagement and innovative applications.
Developing the Ethereum Ecosystem
The Ethereum ecosystem will expand thanks to the addition of blobs and the ensuing drop in Layer 2 network expenses. Previously hindered by high prices, Ed Felten, a retired professor and co-founder of Offchain Labs, the company that develops Arbitrum, refers to the possibility of enhanced AI-driven behaviors in gaming and DeFi applications. By encouraging the creation and deployment of more Layer 2 chains, this Ethereum Dencun update may also lower the obstacles to launching new enterprises.
One of Attestant’s co-founders, Jim McDonald, believes there may be a “huge Layer 2 chains explosion” in the coming months. These operational chains could be far less expensive and open the door for developing cutting-edge goods like use-specific or single-event chains, which will contribute to creating a dynamic and varied blockchain ecosystem.
Outlook and Implementation
Many Layer 2 chains anticipate a swift transition to Optimistic Rollup, while discussing voting and governance may take longer for others, such as Arbitrum. The cost savings are evident despite these short-term advantages, but there is no assurance that they will continue. Blob storage will become more expensive as demand rises, which could reduce the present cost advantage. Karl Floersch, co-founder of the Optimism project, warns that although the initial fee reduction will foster development and usage, the system must prepare for future cost increases despite the ongoing low-cost phase, offering a prime window for innovation and expansion within the Ethereum ecosystem. But the Dencun update marks a turning point in Ethereum’s evolution and the networks surrounding it, ushering in a more expansive, inventive, and user-friendly blockchain landscape.
