Simplifying Ethereum’s Network Structure
Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has shed light on the upcoming stage of the Ethereum blockchain roadmap, known as the Purge. This initiative aims to streamline the network’s structure, alleviate the burden on nodes, and enhance security through the implementation of Ethereum Improvement Proposal (EIP) 6780, which was introduced during the Dencun hard fork.
EIP-6780: Optimizing the SELFDESTRUCT Opcode
The Purge focuses on simplifying Ethereum’s protocol by reducing complexity and introducing new security measures. EIP-6780 plays a pivotal role by optimizing the SELFDESTRUCT opcode, a move that Buterin highlights as crucial for improving protocol implementation and security.
Removing Complexity and Technical Debt
In an effort to slim down Ethereum and clear technical debt, the Purge will see the removal of outdated code and support for features no longer needed after the Merge. This includes addressing the “empty accounts” issue and setting a fixed storage window for blobs, contributing to a more streamlined and efficient network.
The Role of Precompiles in Ethereum’s Ecosystem
Buterin also discussed the use of precompiles in Ethereum contracts, acknowledging their success in enabling applications that require complex cryptography. However, he noted the need to reevaluate and possibly remove precompiles that have become obsolete or rarely used, thus reducing consensus bugs and simplifying new EVM implementations.
Future Directions: EIP-4444 and Log Reform
Looking ahead, the Purge will explore further simplifications, such as EIP-4444, which proposes removing old blocks from default Ethereum nodes to reduce storage requirements. Additionally, Buterin suggested reforms to the LOG opcode to enhance decentralized application access to on-chain events, potentially through ZK-SNARKs and incrementally-verifiable computation.
Embracing SimpleSerialize (SSZ) for Efficiency
The transition to SimpleSerialize (SSZ) for the Ethereum block structure is another key aspect of the Purge, promising a more straightforward specification, shorter Merkle proofs, and a unified cryptographic data structure across Ethereum.
The Purge represents a significant step in Ethereum’s ongoing evolution, focusing on removing complexity, enhancing security, and preparing the network for future scalability solutions. As Ethereum continues to innovate, these updates will play a crucial role in ensuring the platform’s long-term sustainability and efficiency.
