Long-term adherence to the “Rollup-first” scaling approach has placed Ethereum at a critical strategic crossroads in 2026. As the mainnet’s performance continues to improve, Layer 2 decentralization efforts slow down, and trust structures diverge, what was once considered a “brand sharding” layer-two network is now evolving into a set of independent systems with different risks and focuses.
In a recent Unchained episode, Austin Griffith and Karl Floersch pointed out that Vitalik Buterin has acknowledged that Layer 2 is no longer just a scaling tool. First, Ethereum’s mainnet has significantly enhanced its processing capacity through increased gas limits and continuous upgrades, with transaction costs decreasing faster than expected, reducing reliance on fee reductions via Layer 2 networks. Second, some Layer 2 solutions have slowed decentralization under regulatory and commercial pressures, diverging from the original vision of “inheriting Ethereum’s trust model.” Third, Layer 2 networks now exhibit multi-tiered security and governance structures—some tightly integrated with Ethereum, others more like independent platforms.
This shift has led Layer 2 to face an “identity crisis.” Karl Floersch believes the key question is whether they are merely network extensions or possess their own culture and value propositions. Take Optimism as an example: initially positioned as an extension of Ethereum, it has now gradually formed an independent ecosystem. Relying solely on “faster and cheaper” transactions is no longer enough to sustain long-term appeal.
Meanwhile, the importance of the Ethereum mainnet is re-emerging. Transaction fees continue to decline, security remains top-tier, and the growth of AI-related applications encourages developers to deploy core services on Layer 1. Data shows that although Layer 2 usage remains high, the asset value protected by the mainnet’s security is decreasing, indicating its role is shifting from a “value center” to an “execution platform.”
Against this backdrop, Ethereum is redefining the division of labor between Layer 1 and Layer 2. The mainnet is gradually returning to its role as the core trust and value anchor, while Layer 2 networks need to demonstrate their relevance in the new cycle through clear application scenarios and long-term value propositions.
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