Unveiling Linea's Path to Decentralization: A Proposal for a Permissionless zkEVM with Decentralized Governance

The proposal, titled “towards Linea's decentralization,” presents a high-level framework for transitioning the zkEVM to a permissionless system with decentralized governance.

Consensys-developed Layer 2 ZK rollup, Linea, has proposed a plan to decentralize its network. The proposal outlines steps towards transitioning the zkEVM to a permissionless system with decentralized governance.

Here are the key takeaways from Linea's decentralization proposal:

1. Block Validation, Proposal, and Finalization

Software architect at Linea, Florian Huc, outlined the proposal in a blog post, detailing modifications to the network’s block validation, block proposal, and finalization processes. The plan aims to achieve finality at both Layer 2 and Layer 1 levels, with Linea’s sequencers confirming Layer 2 finality and Ethereum securing Layer 1 finality when data and proofs from L2 blocks are posted.

2. Proof-of-Stake Model for Block Validation

A key aspect of the proposal involves replacing Linea’s current Layer 2 finality system with a proof-of-stake model for block validation. This new approach would require validators to stake tokens and participate in the QBFT consensus algorithm. To maintain network integrity, the proposal outlines a slashing mechanism for misbehaving validators, including burning a portion of their stake.

3. On-Chain Auction System for Block Proposers

The framework also introduces an on-chain auction system for selecting block proposers. This system would allow any node to bid for the role, with the highest bidder winning the right to propose a block. As part of this process, the winning bid amount would be burned, effectively reducing the total token supply and potentially creating deflationary pressure.

4. Recovery Mode to Maintain Network Activity

To ensure network resilience, the proposal includes a recovery mode that would activate if the validator set becomes inactive for six months. In such a scenario, any node would be able to start finalizing blocks, allowing the system to continue functioning.

5. Linea’s Decentralization Journey

Linea's decentralization proposal follows the project’s earlier announcement of plans to decentralize the network. This announcement came after a deliberate block-production pause in response to a security exploit on Velocore, a decentralized exchange operating on Linea’s network. The proposed changes aim to enhance Linea’s decentralization and security while maintaining its performance as a Layer 2 solution.

6. Impact on Layer 2 Scaling Landscape

By implementing a proof-of-stake model and introducing competitive mechanisms for block proposal and validation, Linea seeks to create a more robust and decentralized network structure. Linea's decentralization efforts reflect a broader trend among scaling solutions to enhance their security and decentralization. The success of this initiative could potentially influence other Layer 2 projects and contribute to the ongoing development of Ethereum's scaling landscape.