Ethereum node operation is becoming easier, thanks to new proposals from the Ethereum Foundation. The goal is to tackle the burden of data growth on nodes while maintaining decentralization and censorship resistance. This change will benefit node operators by reducing storage requirements, making it more accessible for enthusiasts and professionals.
The current problem:
Imagine a library that never throws away books. As Ethereum grows, its ‘state’ (historical ledger) increases exponentially, making running a full node demanding due to storage, memory, and bandwidth needs. This creates a bottleneck, risking centralization, as only those with significant resources can participate.
Three proposals to address the issue:
1. **State Expiry**: Moves inactive data to an archive, reducing active data load.
2. **State Archive**: Stores expired state data securely for verification purposes.
3. **Partial Statelessness**: Allows nodes to validate new blocks using compact cryptographic proofs, lowering hardware requirements.
Benefits:
These solutions combat centralization, making it easier for diverse participants to run nodes and strengthening the network’s security. Future improvements to RPC infrastructure will enhance the overall experience for developers and end-users.
Road ahead:
The proposals are a strategic vision for Ethereum’s long-term scalability. Implementation will involve research, community discussion, testing on testnets, and careful implementation to ensure security and stability.
These changes demonstrate the Ethereum Foundation’s commitment to preserving decentralization and ensuring the network remains permissionless and robust.
Source: https://www.bitget.com/news/detail/12560605116961