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July 13, 2023

SKALE is Melding the Best of Blockchain Layers for Enhanced Scalability and Customization | SKALE

Chadwick Strange
VP of Product

In the continually evolving blockchain landscape, new players and cutting-edge technologies keep emerging, aiming to solve the perennial challenge of blockchain – marrying scalability with security. Today, we shine the spotlight on the SKALE Network, a pioneer offering a revolutionary architecture that expertly melds the robustness of Layer 1 solutions with the efficiency of Layer 2 solutions. Additionally, each SKALE Chain serves as a distinctive App-chain, enabling unparalleled customization and horizontal scaling.

But before we dive in, let's decode the blockchain layers.

Unraveling the Blockchain Layers: From Core to Scalability and Beyond 

In the realm of blockchain technology, the terminology of "layers" often pops up. So, let's demystify them.

Layer 1: The Settlement Layer

This is the core blockchain protocol, handling the recording, verification, and storage of transactions. Despite their robust security, Layer 1 blockchains like Ethereum and Bitcoin grapple with scalability issues due to their inherent design.

Layer 2: The Scalability Layer

Layer 2 is like a jetpack for a Layer 1 blockchain. Its mission is to scale up the transactional capacity and slash associated costs. Although it can significantly enhance transactional throughput and efficiency, it does so at the expense of centralization, data availability, and computational power.

Layer 3: The Application Layer

The new kid on the blockchain block, Layer 3, facilitates customization of the underlying blockchain infrastructure. But while it offers impressive scalability and features, it suffers from being weakly-trusted.

Enter SKALE: The Hybrid Layer Powerhouse

Unlike standard blockchain networks that strictly operate as either Layer 1 or Layer 2 solutions, SKALE Network presents a unique hybrid architecture. It allows each SKALE Chain to function as a base layer (Layer 1) and yet built atop a Layer 1 blockchain (providing security and validator-node orchestration). This means SKALE Chains can swiftly process transactions with the efficiency of Layer 2 solutions and simultaneously benefit from the robust security offered by Ethereum, a Layer 1 solution characteristic.

This groundbreaking blend mitigates the usual compromise between security and scalability experienced in conventional blockchain networks. And as an icing on the cake, SKALE Network even offers the customization and features promised by Layer 3 Blockchain-as-a-service via App-chains and Hub-chains.

SKALE Macro Architecture

Redefining Blockchain Customization: SKALE's App-Chains and Hub-Chains

SKALE's architecture brings two trailblazing concepts to the table - App-chains and Hub-chains. App-chains are SKALE Chains tailored for a specific application, while Hub-chains are designed for an ecosystem of applications or needs. They offer shared customization and facilitate inter-chain communication and transactions, providing a shared infrastructure for related hubs or applications.

This diverges from the one-size-fits-all approach prevalent in blockchain networks. Developers can now choose how to serve the unique needs of their dapp and its user community, promising fast, efficient, and predictable performance.

The Enterprise Edge with SKALE's App-Chains

For enterprises, the App-chain model offers significant advantages. It allows for the creation of permissioned or permissionless blockchains tailored to an enterprise's specific needs. This could be invaluable for applications that require high levels of control and security, like supply chain or CRM services.

Additionally, the ability to customize the chain parameters can enable higher performance, as enterprises can choose an optimized routing infrastructure for their use case. Also, each App-chain operates independently of others, ensuring consistent performance, even under high load.

The SKALE Revolution: A Leap Forward in Blockchain Technology

SKALE, with its innovative amalgamation of Layer 1 and Layer 2 characteristics and its unique App-chain model, offers developers a secure, scalable, and customizable platform for application development. This leap in blockchain technology enables developers to create applications that can meet user needs more effectively, marking a significant stride in the evolution of blockchain applications.

Stay tuned with us as we continue to explore more exciting developments in the blockchain universe. Happy developing!

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 on-chain file storage, interchain messaging, zero-cost minting, ML/AI smart contracts, 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.

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