22 Aug 2023
Exploring Linea: The Layer 2 Solution from the Makers of MetaMask
Linea is a layer 2 blockchain built by Consensys. With Linea, users can benefit from the security and trust of Ethereum while enjoying lower transaction costs. It does this by leveraging quantum-resistant lattice-based cryptography to create zero-knowledge proofs that include every transaction performed on the network, and rolling them up to Mainnet.
Introduction
Linea is a Layer 2 blockchain network built on top of Ethereum, designed to offer scalable and fast transaction confirmation times. It uses zero-knowledge technology to offer cheaper and faster blockchain transactions, and it maintains the same level of security and decentralization as the main network. As a reminder ZK rollups bundle large volumes of transactions off-chain and then execute that ‘rollup’ in a single on-chain transaction, resulting in faster transaction speeds at a fraction of the usual gas fees. Linea is EVM-compatible, and it natively integrates with MetaMask wallet and ConsenSys infrastructure. Linea has a unique design and features, and it stands out from other Layer 2 networks due to its compatibility with existing Ethereum developer tools.
With the increasing adoption of Layer 2 solutions it's crucial to learn more about new projects like Linea. This article serves as a guide, highlighting the technical developments, the vision of its developers, and its potential in the blockchain space.
Enhancing Ethereum Through Zero-Knowledge Rollups
Linea has been developed to upscale transactions and reduce the transaction fee. It is a fully-EVM equivalent zk-rollup program. For those that forgot, EVM is Ethereum Virtual Machine, an application that executes smart contracts on the Ethereum network. It also analyzes the network each time a new block is added.
On the other hand, Zero Knowledge Rollup is a Layer-2 scalability solution. It accelerates the validation of transactions while keeping the gas fee limited. They work better than the traditional Layer-1 blockchain by blending on and off-chain processes. Linea does not just bring the two advanced solutions together; it also deploys other mechanisms.
It also utilizes the Zk-SNARKs, which stands for Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge. It is a form of zero-knowledge cryptography where network members can exhibit their possession of information. They can reveal a private key without revealing details about the belongings or interactions.
Linea uses a lattice-powered prover that works on zkSNARK technology. It generates proofs quickly without deploying a trusted setup, which zkSNARK lacks. Putting in multiple solutions makes the transactions 15x to 20x cheaper on the Ethereum mainnet.
The Creators of Metamask
The team behind Linea is ConsenSys, a leading web3 software technology company that builds some of the Ethereum ecosystem's core infrastructure, including MetaMask and Infura. ConsenSys is led by Ethereum co-founder Joe Lubin. Linea has recently partnered with Covalent, a Web 3 data service provider, and Connext, a cross-chain bridging protocol. As for funding, Consensys has raised $725 million in funding through multiple rounds from VCs and global investors such as Microsoft, SoftBank, and others. Through all funding rounds, Consensys is valued at $7 billion.
The Linea mainnet has been live for a couple months. Linea has achieved over $12 million in Total Value Locked (TVL). As of now, Linea has not introduced its own native token and there's no indication of any upcoming plans to do so. However, having a token plays a crucial role in gaining significant traction for a project. In this time Linea has over $45 million has bridged over, with over 190,000 unique users. Linea has not generated as much traction as Base, because there are no unique applications on Linea.
Linea's Technological Prowess
At its core, Linea aims to be a fully decentralized, permissionless network, consisting of three primary elements: the Sequencer, Prover, and Bridge Relayer. As it stands, Linea is in its mainnet phase, and its architecture is still evolving.
The Coordinator is a pivotal module in Linea, serving as the bridge for information transfer between Ethereum and Linea. It plays a dual role, facilitating the movement of data both within Linea's execution client and with external entities like other blockchains and Linea's data availability stack.
The Sequencer, on the other hand, is central to Linea's execution client. It's tasked with ordering, constructing, and executing blocks in a manner that enables the creation of a subsequent zero-knowledge proof. The Sequencer determines the sequence of transaction execution, constructs blocks, executes them, and prepares specific data related to the execution traces for the zero-knowledge prover. Linea's current execution client is zkGeth, a modified version of geth compatible with zk-proving technology. However, Linea is in the process of developing zkBesu, which will harness the full capabilities of the Consensys stack, ensuring compatibility, reliability, and faster network launch.
The Traces Generator is a segment of Linea's sequencer that produces data utilized by the prover to create ZK proofs. After the sequencer constructs its blocks, they are executed, producing data known as traces. These traces, detailing the state of the network and involved accounts at each transaction step, are crucial for Linea's zero-knowledge technology.
The Trace Expansion and Proving module is pivotal in generating the final dataset required for a zero-knowledge proof and subsequently producing that proof. This module collaborates closely with the Coordinator and zkBesu to create a succinct, non-interactive argument of knowledge, commonly referred to as zkSNARK. In essence, Linea's architecture, from the Sequencer's transaction ordering to the Trace Expansion and Proving module's final proof generation, ensures that the network remains efficient, secure, and primed for future advancements.
Final Thoughts
By seamlessly integrating advanced technologies like zk-rollups and zero-knowledge cryptography, Linea promises not only faster and cheaper transactions but also retains the security and decentralization that Ethereum is renowned for.
While the absence of a native token is a cause for concern, it's essential to remember that the true value of a blockchain network lies in its technological robustness, community engagement, and the solutions it offers. Linea, backed by the powerhouse that is ConsenSys and its intricate architecture, is positioned to capture a share of the current Layer 2 environment.
Disclaimer: Nothing on this site should be construed as a financial investment recommendation. It’s important to understand that investing is a high-risk activity. Investments expose money to potential loss.
