Layer 1

Architecture

Layer 1 represents the foundational blockchain infrastructure upon which decentralized applications and other protocols are built, defining the core rules governing consensus and data validity. Its design fundamentally impacts transaction throughput, security parameters, and the overall scalability of the ecosystem, influencing the cost and speed of on-chain operations. The choice of consensus mechanism—Proof-of-Work, Proof-of-Stake, or variations thereof—within this layer dictates the energy consumption and decentralization trade-offs inherent to the network. Consequently, Layer 1 architecture is a critical determinant of the network’s capacity to support complex financial instruments and derivatives.