- The objective of the Goerli Testnet experiment was to reduce gas fees within the Ethereum network.
- The upcoming Dencun upgrade aims to introduce Proto-Dank Sharding to enhance Ethereum's functionality.
- During the test, a bug was identified that was responsible for delaying the finality of transactions.
- Subsequent tests on the Sepolia and Holesky Testnets are set to take place on January 31 and February 7, 2024, respectively.
Alternative Text: Ethereum's Dencun Upgrade and Proto-Dank Sharding
Ethereum's development team has successfully executed the Dencun upgrade on the Goerli Testnet, albeit with some delays and the need for bug removal. The primary objective of this upgrade is to streamline the cost of gas in Ethereum through the implementation of Proto-Dank Sharding.
Despite the initial setback, two more comprehensive tests are on the horizon. These tests will evaluate the Dencun upgrade on the Sepolia and Holesky testnets, representing crucial steps post-Merge to solidify Ethereum's competitive edge.
Enhancements in the Dencun Upgrade:
The Dencun upgrade focuses on rationalizing gas fees by increasing on-chain data storage. This optimization will be facilitated through a significant update known as Proto-Dank Sharding.
Understanding Sharding:
Sharding involves breaking the blockchain consensus into smaller groups capable of independently adding blocks to the Ethereum blockchain. This division is effective for blockchains with a high number of validators to prevent 51% attacks, as witnessed in a notable incident in June 2022 that drained $625 million from the Axie Infinity Game.
In Ethereum's case, sharding aims to distribute the consensus of approximately 900k validators into groups of about 14k each. Due to the blockchain's size, a preliminary form of sharding, called Proto-Dank Sharding (EIP – 4844), must be implemented first.
Proto-Dank Sharding Mechanics:
Developed by Ethereum researchers Protolambda and Dankrad Feist, Proto-Dank Sharding seeks to increase Ethereum block storage by introducing "Blobs." These temporary storage spaces in Ethereum blocks will be deleted after 3 months, similar to the concept of Zero Knowledge Rollups. Blobs will store individual transaction details, with summaries permanently recorded on the main blockchain.
Goerli Testnet Results:
The Goerli Testnet experienced a delay in transaction finality during the Dencun upgrade test. Ethereum developer Parithosh reported this delay on X.com. Despite the setback, with 563k validators present during testing, the bug was later resolved, and the Goerli Testnet reached finality.
Finality and Future Tests:
Finality, the irreversible inscription of data on a blockchain, was achieved after a high number of validator approvals. While the delay in reaching finality posed challenges, Ethereum developers plan to conduct Dencun upgrade tests on the Sepolia Testnet on January 31, 2024, and the Holesky Testnet on February 7, 2024.
Disclaimer: Voice of Crypto aims to provide accurate and current information, but it assumes no responsibility for missing facts or inaccuracies. Cryptocurrencies are highly volatile, and users are advised to conduct their own research and make informed financial decisions.