Vitalik Signals New Path as Ethereum Layer One Expands Fast
- Ethereum layer one scaling weakens the vision that placed layer two at the centre.
- Base says layer two networks must evolve beyond lower fees to serve the ecosystem.
- Vitalik supports native rollups and zero-knowledge systems as Ethereum capacity rises.
Ethereum’s co-founder Vitalik Buterin said recent developments have forced a reassessment of Layer 2 networks as Ethereum’s base layer scales faster than expected. He shared the view on X. In his post, Buterin pointed to two developments shaping the debate. He cited slower-than-expected progress toward stage 2 rollups. He also cited rapid Layer 1 scaling, low fees, and large gas limit increases projected for 2026.
Together, these shifts challenge the original rollup-centric roadmap. Buterin said the earlier vision of L2s no longer fits Ethereum’s current direction. The comments triggered immediate discussion across the ecosystem.
Vitalik Buterin Revisits the Original Rollup Vision
Buterin recapped Ethereum’s earlier scaling goal. He said Ethereum scaling meant creating large amounts of block space secured directly by Ethereum’s guarantees. This included validity, censorship resistance, and finality. He stated that systems relying on multisig bridges fail that definition. According to Buterin, a high-throughput chain loosely connected to Ethereum does not scale Ethereum itself.
He added that Layer 1 scaling now reduces the need for L2s as “branded shards.” Ethereum no longer depends on L2s to supply trusted block space. Instead, L1 itself continues to expand capacity.
Buterin also noted that some L2s do not plan to reach stage 2. He said regulatory needs push certain projects to retain control. He stated this approach may suit customers, but it does not align with Ethereum scaling. He concluded that this divergence is acceptable. Ethereum’s roadmap now includes direct L1 scaling with significant gas limit increases planned this year and beyond.
Jesse Pollak Responds With Base’s Position
Base co-founder Jesse Pollak responded publicly on X following Buterin’s comments. He said Ethereum scaling at L1 benefits the entire ecosystem. Pollak stated that L2s cannot succeed by offering lower fees alone. He said Base has focused on onboarding users, developers, and applications since launch.
He added that Base works to grow Ethereum symbiotically. According to Pollak, this approach supports long-term ecosystem health rather than isolated gains.
Pollak said Base benefits from Ethereum’s security and infrastructure. This allows the team to focus on products and real-world use cases. He listed trading, social platforms, gaming, creators, and prediction markets. He also confirmed that Base reached stage 1 last year.
He said the team is accelerating work toward safely reaching stage 2 while addressing technical complexity. Pollak said Base will continue pursuing its mission. He described the goal as building a global economy that increases innovation, creativity, and freedom.
Related: Ethereum Adopts Austerity Framework to Safeguard Core Protocol
Native Rollups and ZK Technology Gain Attention
As Ethereum’s base layer strengthens, attention has shifted toward native rollups. These rollups integrate more deeply into the Ethereum protocol. Buterin has expressed growing support for native rollups. He has shown particular interest in zero-knowledge proof systems.
ZK-EVM development plays a central role in this shift. It could allow closer integration between rollups and Ethereum’s base layer. This approach aims to streamline scaling while preserving decentralization and security. Buterin has said this direction aligns better with Ethereum’s long-term goals. Pollak echoed support for cooperation. He said Base is leaning into differentiation, supported by the Ethereum Foundation.
He cited work on native account abstraction, privacy, and scaling. He said Base remains committed to working with Ethereum to build the onchain future. As Ethereum scales directly at Layer 1, will the ecosystem redefine how Layer 2 networks create value?
