Ethereum, the largest cryptocurrency network globally, is poised to become a central hub for tokenization. Many investors regard it as the computer of the new internet. Numerous popular crypto protocols operate either directly on the Ethereum network or through layer-2 solutions. The imminent Fusaka hard fork raises the question: what changes does it bring?
Ethereum Fusaka Hard Fork
The forthcoming major network update will activate EIP-7825, introducing a gas limit of 2²⁴ (approximately 16.78 million) per transaction. This implementation is already available on the Holesky and Sepolia test networks, allowing developers to experience its effects firsthand.
This update aims to boost block efficiency and is crucial as it enables parallel execution in Ethereum’s future. Although its impact will be minimal for most network users, who might not notice the change, it lays essential groundwork for future network enhancements.
Previously, a single transaction could consume the entire block gas limit (around 45 million), paving the way for potential DoS attacks and obstructing parallel execution. The shift towards increasing block packaging efficiency and parallel processing marks a significant improvement. Given that the majority of users conduct transactions under 16 million gas, most will not feel the impact of this change.
Although the mainnet activation date for the Fusaka fork has not been announced, it is expected to be included in the next major fork, establishing a foundation for future progress.
Ethereum’s Future Prospects
This step towards technical efficiency will facilitate filling blocks with several smaller transactions rather than singular ones, enhancing overall performance. This move is also beneficial in mitigating DoS risks, strengthening the network’s security, and addressing potential long-term issues.
Ethereum’s roadmap includes pivotal milestones such as EIP-7928 “Glamsterdam,” aiming for parallel execution within blocks to increase capacity. Fusaka paves the way for scaling advancements and supports Ethereum’s future scope.
Long-term goals focus on danksharding, proto-danksharding, reduced fees, and increased rollup capacity, with Fusaka laying the groundwork for these ambitions. Ethereum developers also work on long-term aims such as running lightweight nodes and enhancing decentralization.
While perhaps not as visually engaging as graphs, these details are vital for Ethereum’s evolution. The steps will expand usage, provide infrastructure for future trillion-dollar RWA markets, and potentially bolster Ether’s price.