Photo by NASA on Unsplash

Blockchain technology has been around for over a decade now and has undergone significant development during this time. One of the most notable advancements in this field is the introduction of different layers in blockchain architecture.

While most people are familiar with layers 1, 2, and 3, many are yet to hear about Layer 0 🤔

To give a brief overview:

• Layer 1 blockchains are standalone chains that have their own infrastructure, protocols, and consensus mechanism.

• Layer 2, on the other hand, is built on top of Layer 1 and is designed to solve scalability issues and make the blockchain more affordable.

• Layer 3 comprises the application layer and encompasses Dapps and protocols that enable Dapps to function.

Chronology - Layer 0 -> layer 1 -> layer 2 -> layer 3

However, Layer 0 is often overlooked when discussing blockchain architecture. Layer 0 is the underlying physical layer that supports all the other layers. It includes all the hardware, servers, nodes, and devices connected to the nodes. Layer 0 is the foundation of the blockchain architecture, and it plays a crucial role in maintaining the integrity and security of the entire network.

One of the most significant advantages of Layer 0 is its ability to seamlessly connect with Layer 1 chains. This interpretability allows for greater flexibility and customization of the blockchain infrastructure. Layer 0 can also address scalability issues by enabling the customization of the logic for products.

The most popular layer 0 chains to build upon is PolkaDot(https://polkadot.network/) and Cosmos(https://cosmos.network/)

More about layer 0 can be read here 👇

In conclusion, understanding Layer 0 is crucial for anyone interested in blockchain technology. It is the foundation of the entire architecture and plays a vital role in ensuring the security and integrity of the network. Furthermore, it enables greater flexibility and customization, making it an essential component for developers and blockchain enthusiasts.