1. What Is Layer 2?
Layer 2, or L2, is a scaling solution built on a main blockchain, or Layer 1. It addresses Ethereum's slow processing, around 15 TPS, and high gas fees.
💡 An Analogy
Layer 1 = a highway, with limited capacity and high tolls.
Layer 2 = a service road alongside it, faster and cheaper, using the highway only when needed.
2. Types of Layer 2
Optimistic Rollups
- Principle: Optimistically assume transactions are valid and verify when challenged.
- Examples: Arbitrum, Optimism, and Base.
- Advantages: EVM compatibility and easy migration of existing DApps.
- Drawback: A 7-day withdrawal waiting period.
ZK Rollups: Zero-Knowledge Proofs
- Principle: Immediately verify transaction validity with mathematical proofs.
- Examples: zkSync, StarkNet, and Polygon zkEVM.
- Advantages: Immediate withdrawals and stronger security.
- Drawback: High technical complexity.
3. Comparing Major L2s
Project | Type | TVL | Gas fees
Arbitrum | Optimistic | $15B+ | $0.01–0.10
Optimism | Optimistic | $7B+ | $0.01–0.10
Base | Optimistic | $8B+ | $0.001–0.01
zkSync | ZK Rollup | $1B+ | $0.01–0.05
StarkNet | ZK Rollup | $500M+ | $0.01–0.05
4. How to Use an L2
- Add the L2 network to MetaMask using Chainlist.org.
- Bridge from Ethereum to the L2 using the official bridge or Orbiter Finance.
- Use DeFi, NFTs, and other applications on the L2.
5. L2s and AI Trading
L2s represent an advance in blockchain infrastructure. NOONOO TRADING trades directly in the Binance futures market, so it operates efficiently regardless of L2 gas fees.
🃏 AI Without Gas-Fee Worries
AI trades automatically and efficiently in the futures market.
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