Imagine Layer N (and Layer 2 protocols) as a high-stakes competition, akin to a CrossFit contest where teams compete against each other by completing exercises the fastest. They feature players, rules, physical activities, and judges or referees. In the Ethereum ecosystem, some layer 2 protocols operate like a team with a strategy to execute tasks or exercises amongst all team members. For example, when tasked to complete 50 jumping jacks, this team would make a team of 5 complete 10 jumping jacks per person.
Layer N alleviates this issue by assigning tasks to capable players who can execute them quickly and efficiently, ensuring smooth competition progression. Consider a team of athletes tasked with various exercises — 100 push-ups, 100 squats, 100 burpees. While some excel at certain exercises, others struggle. Layer N optimizes teamwork by assigning exercises to individuals/resources based on their strengths. They call this dedicated compute.
Additionally, Layer N offers flexibility in judging and verification processes. Current layer 2 protocols are similar to judges specializing in specific exercise types. In contrast, Layer N initially adopts optimistic proofs as its primary judging mechanism while remaining configurable for future implementation of other methods, such as zk-Snarks. This adaptability allows Layer N to evolve and accommodate various judging styles and data utilization strategies.
All of this architecture enables Layer N to be faster, more agile, and flexible. I think it’s fair to call Layer N the most athletic of the Layer 2’s, and very competitive at that!
