Barry: Dymension – Modular Blockchains and RollApps

When it comes to scaling blockchains, there are 2 main types of off-chain solutions: sidechains and L2s (i.e. rollups, state channels). These are all intended to scale monolithic L1 blockchains. However, the core functional layers of a blockchain could also be reinvisioned as customisable building blocks. This idea led to the creation of modular blockchains, which handle execution, consensus and data availability separately from one another, thus considerably increasing throughput.
Dymension is a Cosmos modular blockchain hub that acts as settlement layer for RollApps (app-specific chains).

Sebastien was joined by Barry, Head of Product at Dymension, to discuss the advantages of developing modular blockchains, their scalability and how RollApps integrate in this environment.

Topics covered in this episode:

• Barry’s background
• The evolution of scaling solutions & Dymension’s RollApps
• The nuances of different types of rollups (L1 vs. L2, Ethereum vs. Cosmos)
• The scalability trilemma and modular blockchains
• Cosmos’ ICS scaling
• The architecture of Dymension and its RDK
• How RollApps choose the data availability layer
• RollApp interoperability
• Incentivising sequencer neutrality
• Network roles in Dymension and differences between SDK & RDK
• Use cases & limitations of RollApps
• Future roadmap

Episode links:

• Barry on Twitter
• Dymension on Twitter
• Dymension's website
• The Interop Podcast on Twitter
• Celestia on Twitter

This episode is hosted by Sebastien Couture. Show notes and listening options: epicenter.tv/489