Ethereum's ENS Identity System Set to Launch Own Layer-2 Blockchain

Ethereum's ENS Identity System is set to revolutionize the blockchain landscape with the upcoming launch of its own layer-2 blockchain, named Namechain. This innovative network aims to enhance transaction efficiency and reduce costs, leveraging zero-knowledge rollup technology. Expected to go live by the end of 2025, Namechain will provide a more user-friendly experience while maintaining the security of the Ethereum mainnet.

Key Takeaways

• ENS Labs is developing Namechain, a layer-2 blockchain using zero-knowledge rollups.

• The launch is anticipated around the end of 2025.

• Namechain will enhance transaction speed and reduce costs significantly.

• The new network will be backward compatible with the existing ENS protocol.

What Is Namechain?

Namechain is the forthcoming layer-2 blockchain from ENS Labs, designed to improve the Ethereum Name Service (ENS). By utilizing zero-knowledge rollups, Namechain will allow for faster and cheaper transactions while still benefiting from the security of the Ethereum network. This development marks a significant step in the evolution of ENS, which serves as the blockchain equivalent of the traditional web's domain name system.

The Technology Behind Namechain

The core technology behind Namechain is zero-knowledge rollups, which compress data to enhance transaction processing. This method allows transactions to be executed off the main Ethereum network, significantly lowering costs and increasing speed. ENS Labs has indicated that they are in the final stages of selecting the specific zero-knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (zkEVM) to be used for Namechain.

Enhancements and User Experience

ENS Labs aims to ensure that the transition to Namechain will be seamless for users. According to Katherine Wu, the chief operating officer of ENS Labs, the new system will be designed to be backward compatible with the current ENS setup (ENSv1). Users can expect a familiar experience with the added benefit of lower gas fees, making it more accessible for everyday transactions.

The Future of ENS and Layer-2 Solutions

The decision to develop Namechain aligns with a broader trend in the cryptocurrency industry, where several major firms are launching their own layer-2 solutions. Projects like Uniswap and Kraken are also exploring similar technologies, although they are opting for different approaches, such as Optimism's OP Stack. Namechain represents a significant advancement for ENS, promising improved scalability and new applications that could reshape how users interact with blockchain technology.

Conclusion

As the launch of Namechain approaches, the Ethereum Name Service is poised to enhance its offerings significantly. With a focus on scalability, cost reduction, and user experience, Namechain could set a new standard for blockchain identity systems. The anticipated launch at the end of 2025 will be a pivotal moment for ENS and the broader Ethereum ecosystem, potentially paving the way for more innovative applications in the future.

Sources

• Ethereum's ENS Identity System Set to Launch Own Layer-2 Blockchain, CoinDesk.