In an exciting development, Polygon Labs, the creator of the Polygon network, has put forward a detailed architecture proposal for its upcoming project called “Polygon 2.0.” This initiative aims to establish a multichain system that will interconnect various networks through Ethereum. The proposal, outlined in a blog post on June 29, suggests the implementation of four distinct layers that will work in tandem to create a comprehensive web of interconnected networks. If approved by validators, Polygon 2.0 will also incorporate an aggregator bridge, enabling near-instant and atomic bridge transactions.
Polygon 2.0 was initially announced on June 12, with the promise of establishing the “value layer” of the internet. However, concrete details were scarce at that time. On June 20, co-founder Mihailo Bjelic shed light on the project by proposing the integration of zero-knowledge proofs into the existing Polygon network. This upgrade was deemed necessary to align the current network with the envisioned goals of Polygon 2.0.
“Polygon 2.0: Comprehensive Overview and Expansion through New Chain Manager Contracts”
The latest blog post, published on June 30, provides a more comprehensive overview of Polygon 2.0. The foundation of the project will consist of the existing “staking layer,” featuring a validator manager contract on Ethereum and a chain manager contract for each individual Polygon chain. New Polygon chains can be launched by deploying new chain manager contracts on Ethereum, thereby expanding the network.
Connecting the foundational staking layer will be an “interoperability layer” comprising bridges that connect each Polygon chain to one another via Ethereum. To ensure secure transfers, zero-knowledge proofs will be utilized for validation within this layer.
https://twitter.com/0xPolygonLabs/status/1674538238835343361?s=20
Additionally, the interoperability layer will incorporate an aggregator responsible for consolidating individual zero-knowledge proofs from each bridge into a single proof. This aggregated proof will then be sent to Ethereum, facilitating seamless bridge transactions while significantly reducing Ethereum gas consumption during proof verification.
The third layer of Polygon 2.0 will be the current execution layer, reliant on the Erigon Ethereum client. Finally, the fourth layer, known as the “proving layer,” will standardize the zero-knowledge-proof process across all Polygon chains.
The team behind Polygon has promised to share further details about each layer in due course.
Polygon is not the only network aiming to expand into a multichain ecosystem. zkSync Era has also announced plans to create a network of “Hyperchains,” set to launch in a testnet phase by the year’s end. Furthermore, Optimism, in collaboration with Coinbase’s Base network, is working on creating a “Superchain” and recently introduced its “Bedrock” upgrade, a crucial step toward this transformative endeavor.