The Past & Present of the L2 Landscape with Jordi Baylina
Apr 10, 2024
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Jordi Baylina discusses the evolution of zkEVMs in the L2 landscape, Polygon's AggLayer proposal, and the inspiration behind his continued contributions. The episode delves into engineering decentralized systems, challenges in blockchain projects, and the transformative power of decentralization in blockchain technology.
Transition of zkEVM from concept to reality showcases progress in L2 landscape development.
Balancing speed, trust, and scalability crucial in integrating different processors across L2 chains.
Emphasis on real applications over speculation drives usability and value in Layer 2 solutions.
Deep dives
The Evolution of ZK EVM and Its Realization with Jordi Bailena
The podcast episode delves deep into the evolution of the Zero Knowledge Ethereum Virtual Machine (ZK EVM) by catching up with Jordi Bailena. They discuss the progress made since the concept was first introduced, emphasizing the shift from theoretical applications to tangible real-world systems. The ZK EVM's technical lead elaborates on the architecture of the processor tailored for the EVM, highlighting the innovative design and flexibility it offers for various applications. The episode also explores the importance of collaboration among teams and the future direction of hardware acceleration in the ZK realm.
Challenges and Solutions in Interconnecting Different Chains
The conversation extends to the challenges faced in interconnecting different chains within the L2 landscape. The shared sequencer model is discussed, raising considerations about synchronous versus asynchronous models for transferring value between various processors and chains. The guest emphasizes the importance of balancing speed, trust, and scalability in bridging different processors while pondering the potential friction in shared sequencers and exploring solutions for seamless cross-chain communication.
Navigating Through L2 Usage Patterns and Real Applications
The podcast explores the current trends in Layer 2 (L2) usage patterns, reflecting on the influx of users shifting between different chains and L2 solutions. The guest shares insights on distinguishing between genuine applications and speculative activities, emphasizing the importance of real applications that offer tangible value and address user needs. The importance of engaging with developers and responding to their concerns or challenges to enhance the usability and practicality of L2 solutions is highlighted.
Inspiration Amidst Disillusionment in the Blockchain Industry
The discussion delves into the speaker's journey through the highs and lows of the blockchain industry, reflecting on moments of disillusionment and excitement. The guest shares personal insights on maintaining optimism and staying inspired despite industry fluctuations and challenges. Embracing the values of decentralization, censorship resistance, and freedom as foundational principles, the focus remains on building sustainable and user-centric blockchain solutions amidst evolving industry dynamics.
Looking Towards a Decentralized Future of Blockchain Technology
The episode concludes with a visionary outlook on the future of blockchain technology, emphasizing the gradual shift towards decentralization, trustlessness, and permissionless systems. The speaker envisions a world where blockchain technology becomes seamlessly integrated into everyday life, enabling individuals to transact and communicate without intermediaries or barriers. As the conversation navigates through current industry trends and challenges, the underlying theme of decentralization and user empowerment remains at the forefront of the dialogue.
In this week’s episode, Anna catches up with Jordi Baylina, OG Ethereum contributor and Polygon zkEVM Technical Lead. They cover what Jordi has been working on since he was last on the show in 2021. Back then, zkEVMs were still just an idea. Now that many of these systems have launched, they have a chance to look at how these fit into the general L2 landscape.
They cover Jordi’s view on engineering decentralized systems and how these are rolled out, and the recent research from Polygon, including their AggLayer proposal. They wrap up on what inspires him to keep contributing in the space.
The next ZK Hack IRL is happening May 17-19 in Kraków, apply to join now at zkkrakow.com
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Gevulot is offering priority access to ZK Podcast listeners, register on gevulot.com and write “Zk Podcast” in the note field of the registration form!
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