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April 17, 2024

A Deep Dive into SKALE's Pooled Security Model

SKALE Network

Exploring SKALE Pooled Security Model

SKALE's pooled security model introduces a significant innovation in blockchain security by leveraging the collective power of decentralized validators. This approach not only enhances network security but also provides a scalable, cost-effective solution for blockchain applications.

The essence of blockchain security hinges on the quality and quantity of its validators. A network supported by a limited number of nodes faces greater security risks, whereas a network backed by a vast array of validators is inherently more secure and resilient. This is where SKALE's innovative approach shines, as it builds its nodes off smart contracts on the Ethereum mainnet allowing SKALE to access Ethereum's existing set of validators.

SKALE operates as an AppChain network that enables developers to launch their own SKALE Chain. This means that each new SKALE Chain automatically inherits the pooled security from the entire network's validator set. Therefore, individual chains within SKALE do not require their own validators but are secured by the overarching network of SKALE validators, hence the name “pooled security”. This mechanism enhances the network's scalability without sacrificing performance or security.

Why Pooled Security?

L1 blockchains often struggle to balance decentralization, security, and scalability, creating significant barriers to blockchain adoption and to the development of decentralized applications, such as prohibitive gas fees and slow transaction processing times.

However, SKALE's pooled security model provides a solution by pooling security resources across multiple chains. This pooled security not only enhances the individual security of each chain but also allows the network to scale dynamically as demand increases. As new nodes join the network, the overall security and capacity of the system improve, enabling the network to handle a growing volume of transactions without compromising on speed or security.

The Role of Validators in SKALE Pooled Security

In the SKALE Network, validators are pivotal in maintaining the network's security and operational integrity. These validators contribute to the network by validating transactions, securing the blockchain, and ensuring consensus is maintained, which is critical for the trustless nature of blockchain operations.

To participate, validators stake SKALE tokens as a form of security deposit, which commits them to act honestly and efficiently. In return for their services, validators receive staking rewards. These rewards serve as an incentive mechanism, encouraging validators to maintain high performance and support the network's overall health.

SKALE Chain Subscription Fee Model

The SKALE network introduces a unique economic model that intertwines the chain subscription payments with its pooled security framework, establishing a connected relationship where one element reinforces the other. Unlike traditional blockchains that may rely on transaction fees paid by users, SKALE introduces a flat monthly chain subscription fee, paid by developers. This approach is revolutionary in that it shifts the cost from the end-users to the developers who deploy dApps on the SKALE network.

Chain subscriptions not only offer a predictable expenditure model for developers but also underpin the network's pooled security mechanism. By generating a steady income for validators beyond staking rewards, it ensures the network remains robust and validators are motivated. This economic model is pivotal for the sustainability of SKALE's pooled security, as pooled security resources necessitate continuous financial support to operate effectively. Thus, the chain subscription model is integral, ensuring that SKALE's architecture remains both economically viable and securely fortified.

Frequent and Random Node Rotation

SKALE implements a mechanism of frequent and random node rotation to safeguard its network against collusion and ensure ongoing reliability. This strategy, known as Random Rotation Incentive Scaling, dynamically selects virtualized subnodes from a larger pool to operate each SKALE Chain, periodically refreshing this selection to prevent prolonged control by any single validator group. This not only enhances the security of transactions across the network but also evenly distributes the opportunity for validators to contribute to and benefit from the network's security, maintaining a resilient and secure ecosystem.

SKALE Pooled Security: A Gateway to Decentralized Innovation

SKALE's pooled security model offers unmatched network security, promoting decentralization, and enhancing trust across its ecosystem. By building on Ethereum security, SKALE guarantees a level of security that effectively shields against a wide array of threats. Its unique approach to scalability, combined with an economic model designed for sustainability, positions SKALE uniquely to facilitate blockchain's mass adoption. The innovative deployment of virtualized subnodes further accentuates SKALE's commitment to delivering a high-performance, secure platform without traditional trade-offs.

For developers looking to pioneer the next wave of decentralized applications, explore SKALE technical documentation and experience the power of pooled security, scalability, and innovation at your fingertips.

About SKALE

SKALE is the world's fastest blockchain, designed for fast, secure, user-centric Ethereum scaling. SKALE chains offer zero gas fees to end-users and have advanced features such as AI/ML smart contracts, on-chain file storage, interchain messaging, zero-cost minting, and enhanced security features.

The SKALE Network enables developers to deploy their own EVM blockchain in minutes without sacrificing speed, security, or decentralization. Welcome to the SKALEverse.

More Information on SKALE

Deploying a Dapp on SKALE

Read SKALE Primer

Learn more about the SKALE $SKL Token

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The SKALE Innovator Program for developers includes grants, consulting, Marketing & PR, engineering support, QA support, and investor introductions.

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