Layer 1 Definition - Glossary

Layer 1 is the base blockchain architecture, handling all transactions and network security directly.

Layer 1 is the foundational blockchain protocol that supports all network operations, such as Bitcoin or Ethereum. It manages consensus, transactions, and security directly on its own ledger. Unlike Layer 2 solutions that build on top for scalability, Layer 1 handles everything natively. It provides the essential infrastructure for decentralized applications and cryptocurrencies. Enhancements to Layer 1 aim to improve speed, scalability, and security. Examples include Ethereum 2.0 and Bitcoin’s Lightning Network. These upgrades address scalability issues while maintaining decentralization and security, ensuring robust performance for blockchain ecosystems.