#educational Post

Examples of Bitcoin Layer 2 Solutions

Several Layer 2 solutions have emerged within the Bitcoin ecosystem, each contributing to scalability and introducing new functionalities.

1. Lightning Network

Launched in 2018, the Lightning Network uses state channels to enable microtransactions on top of the Bitcoin Layer-1. It facilitates fast and low-cost transactions by conducting multiple transactions off-chain and settling the opening and closing balances on the main blockchain.

2. Rootstock (RSK)

Operating as a sidechain, Rootstock pioneered smart contracts on the Bitcoin blockchain. It allows users to send Bitcoin to the Rootstock network, where it becomes a locked-up smart Bitcoin (RBTC) in the user's RSK wallet, enabling faster and cheaper transactions.

3. Stacks Protocol

This Layer-2 blockchain (formerly Blockstack) enables smart contracts and decentralized applications on the Bitcoin blockchain. Stacks utilizes microblocks for speed and a Proof-of-Transfer (PoX) mechanism, tying transactions to the Bitcoin blockchain.

4. Liquid Network

Liquid Network is a Bitcoin Layer 2 sidechain that allows its users to move their bitcoins back and forth using a two-way peg mechanism. When BTC is transferred to the Liquid Network, it’s converted into Liquid BTC (L-BTC) at a 1:1 ratio. It also supports the issuance of tokens and other digital assets.