The Ethereum network has successfully implemented its latest hard fork, known as the Fusaka Upgrade, just seven months after the Pectra improvement. This marks the second significant enhancement for the platform in 2023, aimed at addressing the urgent need for scalability and cost reduction on associated Layer 2 (L2) networks.
One of the most notable developments arising from this upgrade is the introduction of a new technology called Peer Data Availability Sampling, or PeerDAS. This innovation enables nodes to verify data more efficiently, resulting in an eightfold increase in blob capacity. Previously, the maximum number of blobs that could be processed per block was nine, but this upgrade will see that number gradually rise, with mini-upgrades set to increase it to 15 blobs in December and 21 blobs in January.
According to Alex Stokes from the Ethereum Foundation, PeerDAS represents a long-term goal for the network. “It lets us scale while not compromising on the values that are so important to Ethereum,” he stated during a livestream organized by EthStaker.
The Fusaka Upgrade is not solely focused on scalability; it also incorporates strategic backend enhancements. One significant feature is the ability for users to sign transactions using biometric systems like facial recognition on smartphones. Furthermore, the network”s defenses against Denial-of-Service (DoS) attacks have been strengthened, making it more resilient against potential threats.
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin sees the long-term implications of PeerDAS, suggesting that it may lead to lower transaction costs on Ethereum”s Layer 1 in the future. Paul Brody from the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance emphasized the upgrade”s significance, stating, “We are laying the foundation on the road to a trillion transactions a day.”
While users may not experience the immediate effects of these strategic improvements, the groundwork has been established for next-generation scalability in the Ethereum ecosystem. Looking ahead, the next major upgrade, dubbed Glamsterdam, is anticipated to continue these efforts in reducing costs and enhancing network functionality.
