Linea proposes a framework for L2 decentralization, plans to move to proof-of-stake

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Linea, the Layer 2 ZK stack developed by Consensys, has unveiled a proposal outlining steps to decentralize its network. The proposal, titled “towards decentralizing Linea”, presents a high-level framework for zkEVM’s transition to a permissionless system with decentralized governance.

Florian Huc, software architect at Linea, authored the proposal detailing changes to the block validation, block proposal and network completion processes. The plan aims to achieve finality at both Layer 2 and Layer 1, with Linea sequentials confirming Layer 2 finality and Ethereum providing Layer 1 finality when data and proofs from L2 blocks are posted.

A key aspect of the proposal involves replacing Linea’s current Layer 2 finality system with a proof-of-stake model for block validation. This new approach would require validators to stake tokens and participate in the QBFT consensus algorithm. To maintain the integrity of the network, the proposal outlines a mitigation mechanism for misbehaving validators, including burning a portion of their stake.

The framework also introduces an on-chain auction system for selecting block proposals. This system would allow any node to bid for the role, with the highest bidder winning the right to propose a block. As part of this process, the winning bid would be burned, effectively reducing the total token supply and potentially creating deflationary pressure.

Network Resilience, Proof of Stake

To ensure network resilience, the proposal includes a recovery mode that would activate if the validation set becomes inactive for six months. In such a scenario, any node could start completing blocks, allowing the system to continue working.

The proposal to decentralize Linea follows the project’s previous announcement of plans to decentralize the network. This announcement came after a deliberate pause in block production in response to a security exploit on Velocore, a decentralized exchange operating on the Linea network.

The proposed changes aim to improve Linea’s decentralization and security while maintaining performance as a tier 2 solution. By implementing a proof-of-stake model and introducing competitive mechanisms for proposing and validating blocks, Linea seeks to create a network structure more robust and decentralized.

Linea’s decentralization efforts reflect a broader trend among scaling solutions to increase their security and decentralization. The success of this initiative could influence other Tier 2 projects and contribute to the continued development of Ethereum’s scaling landscape.

In June, Linea announced its move towards a decentralized network by planning to decentralize the sequencer in its package to avoid central control and increase resistance to censorship. This follows criticism of the protocol after its stalled production came to an abrupt halt following the Velocore hack. In August, Linea welcomed Status as the first contributor to its open-source L2 rollup project to increase the transparency and security of the Ethereum blockchain.

While the proposal outlines a comprehensive framework for decentralization, it remains to be seen how these changes will be implemented and what impact they will have on Linea’s performance and adoption.

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