Consensus Layer

The consensus layer in Ethereum, formerly known as Eth2 or the Beacon Chain, is one of the two layers that comprise Layer 1 of Ethereum alongside the execution layer.

In 2022, Ethereum underwent a significant transformation from a proof-of-work (PoW) system to a proof-of-stake (PoS) mechanism through an upgrade known as the Merge. This change was implemented to eliminate the energy-intensive mining process associated with PoW.

The upgrade involved integrating Ethereum’s original PoW mainnet with a separate PoS blockchain, known as the Beacon Chain, to form a unified Ethereum PoS blockchain. Following this transition, the PoW mainnet was repurposed and renamed the execution layer, responsible for processing transactions and executing smart contracts. Concurrently, the Beacon Chain was renamed the consensus layer, tasked with securing the network through consensus among validators operating under the PoS system.

Circuit

A circuit in a zero-knowledge proof (ZKP) is a mathematical representation of a computation or problem that needs verification. It consists of logical gates and...

Cross Chain Swap

A cross-chain swap in crypto allows users to exchange one type of digital asset for another directly between different blockchain networks, enhancing interopera...