The next evolution of Metis Layer 2 begins on May 14, with the activation of the Andromeda Upgrade—the first phase of the Metis ReGenesis evolution. This milestone introduces two groundbreaking components: Fraud Proofs and Data Availability migration to Ethereum. Combined with Metis' existing decentralized sequencers, these upgrades transform Andromeda into the first truly decentralized Layer 2, delivering unmatched security, transparency, and scalability, and laying the foundation for the next era of high-performance, decentralized applications.
Our migration of Data Availability (DA) to Ethereum leverages the Proto-Danksharding upgrade, fundamentally transforming how Layer 2 data is secured and accessed. By posting transaction data directly to Ethereum L1 through blob transactions, we achieve several critical advantages:
The migration ensures all transaction data inherits Ethereum's robust security guarantees. Rather than relying on external DA providers, every piece of data becomes permanently anchored to Ethereum's immutable ledger. This shift eliminates potential points of failure and strengthens the entire system's resilience.
Proto-Danksharding's blob transactions significantly reduce data posting costs, making Layer 2 transactions more economical while maintaining robust security. This efficiency doesn't come at the expense of decentralization – instead, it enhances it by making network participation more accessible.
The implementation of fraud proofs represents a major advancement in network security. This system enables anyone to challenge invalid transactions or state roots, creating a robust, community-driven security mechanism:
By allowing any participant to become a watcher, we distribute security responsibilities across the network. This democratization of security ensures no single entity controls the validation process, strengthening the network's resistance to manipulation.
The 7-day challenge window provides ample time for watchers to identify and prove fraudulent activities. When invalid states are detected, the system automatically reverts the fraudulent transactions and implements slashing penalties for malicious actors.
When these upgrades merge with our existing decentralized sequencers, they create an unprecedented level of decentralization in Layer 2 solutions:
Decentralized Sequencers: Enable distributed transaction ordering and execution
Ethereum-based Data Availability: Ensures transparent, accessible transaction data
Community-driven Fraud Proofs: Provide decentralized security enforcement
This three-pronged approach eliminates traditional centralization vectors, creating a truly trustless and decentralized Layer 2 environment. Each component reinforces the others, forming a robust and secure ecosystem that maintains high performance without compromising decentralization.
The Andromeda Upgrade activates key decentralization features—Fraud Proofs and Data Availability (DA) on Ethereum. To support this, all sequencer operators must complete the following steps to prepare their infrastructure.
eth/v1/node/version
eth/v1/beacon/genesis
eth/v1/config/spec
eth/v1/beacon/blob_sidecars/${slot}
These endpoints must return valid responses when pointed to Ethereum Mainnet.
The Andromeda Upgrade sets a new standard for Layer 2 solutions, demonstrating that true decentralization is not only possible but essential for the future of blockchain scaling. By addressing security, data availability, and transaction execution through a decentralized framework, Metis is building the foundation for the next generation of blockchain applications.
This comprehensive approach to decentralization creates the perfect foundation for future innovations, particularly in high-performance applications like AI and DeFi, where security and decentralization are paramount. The Andromeda Upgrade isn't just an improvement—it's a complete reimagining of what Layer 2 solutions can achieve.
