Buterin highlighted a turning point in Ethereum’s scalability approach, noting that layer-2 projects have failed to fully align with their initial vision. While they were expected to significantly reduce network load, current progress suggests the need for a revised roadmap for Ethereum’s future.
He emphasized that reaching full decentralization, often referred to as “stage 2,” has proven far more difficult and slower than anticipated. Technical limitations and interoperability challenges between projects remain key obstacles, limiting the effectiveness of layer-2 solutions.
Meanwhile, improvements on Ethereum’s base layer are reshaping the landscape. Lower transaction fees and plans to significantly increase gas limits by 2026 suggest that the main network itself may become more scalable, prompting a reassessment of the role of layer-2 solutions.
