Modular Blockchain: Pluggable Solutions to Performance Bottlenecks

The development of blockchain technology has faced the "impossible triangle" dilemma of scalability, decentralization, and security. Modular blockchain, as a new type of architecture, offers a new approach to solving this problem by decomposing the blockchain system into multiple specialized components.

Comparison between Monolithic Blockchain and Modular Blockchain

Monolithic blockchains such as Bitcoin and Ethereum independently handle various aspects of the network, from data storage to transaction verification, etc. Taking Ethereum as an example, a mature monolithic chain typically consists of four architectures: execution layer, settlement layer, data availability layer, and consensus layer.

In contrast, modular blockchain allocates different functions to specialized modules, such as execution layer, data availability layer, consensus layer, etc. This design allows each module to be optimized for specific needs, improving overall performance and efficiency.

Advantages of Modular Blockchain

1. Higher scalability: By separating different functions, it can better cope with increased network load.

2. Flexibility: Developers can freely combine different modules according to their needs to quickly build customized solutions.

3. Specialization: Each module can focus on optimizing its own functions, improving overall efficiency.

4. Collaboration: Different modules can cooperate with each other to utilize their respective advantages.

5. Upgrade Convenience: It is possible to upgrade a specific module without affecting the entire system.

Mainstream Modular Blockchain Projects

Execution Layer

Layer 2 technology is an extension of the execution layer in the Blockchain architecture, aimed at enhancing the scalability of the main chain. It mainly includes:

• Optimistic Rollups: such as Arbitrum, OP, Base, etc.
• ZK Rollups: such as Linea, Starknet, zkSync, etc.

Data Availability Layer

• Celestia: As a pioneer in the modular blockchain field, providing data availability layer and consensus layer services.
• EigenDA: A data availability service based on EigenLayer, utilizing Ethereum stakers as validators.
• Avail: A modular blockchain project launched by the Polygon team, providing DA services.

Settlement Layer

• Dymension: A modular blockchain platform based on Cosmos, providing a framework for RollApp development.
• Cevmos: Combining Celestia, EVMos, and CosmOS to provide a settlement layer for EVM-compatible rollups.

Exploration of Modular Blockchain in the Bitcoin Ecosystem

With the promotion of the Ordinals protocol and Bitcoin ETFs, the Bitcoin ecosystem has also begun to explore modular technology. The main projects include:

• Merlin: Supports multiple native Bitcoin assets while being compatible with EVM.
• B² Network: adopts a modular design, including Rollup layer, data availability layer, and off-chain verification layer.

Future Outlook

Modular blockchain technology represents a more "soulful" approach to pluggable products, providing a solid foundation for building the next generation of decentralized applications. This technology is demonstrating potential across various fields, such as gaming, RWA, AI, and more.

As technology continues to mature and application areas expand, modular blockchain is expected to drive more innovation, laying the foundation for building a more open, flexible, and secure digital world.