Ethereum’s Pectra Upgrade Set to Roll Out in Two Stages
Ethereum’s next upgrade, Pectra, will be split into two forks to implement over 20 Ethereum Improvement Proposals (EIPs) without delays.
Key points:
- Split into two forks: Pectra 1 and Pectra 2.
- Pectra 1 includes 8 EIPs: These are undergoing tests on Devnet 3.
- Pectra 2: Includes PeerDAS and 12 other EIPs.
- Developer debate: Some opposed splitting the upgrade.
- Key focus: Improving Layer 2 scalability and adding Verkle Trees.
Ethereum’s Two-Stage Pectra Upgrade:
Ethereum developers have decided to split the Pectra upgrade into two forks after their September 19, 2024, meeting. Alex Stokes, an Ethereum Foundation researcher, led the call and proposed the division.
Pectra 1 will include eight EIPs currently in testing, while Pectra 2 will contain the other 12, including PeerDAS and EOF.
Read more: Vitalik Buterin: Stage 1+ L2 Networks Will Be the Future of Ethereum Scaling
Pectra 1 aims to reduce node data storage with Verkle Trees, lessening the load on validators. EIP-7702 introduces “smart account” features, which allow batch transactions and better security for external wallets.
Pectra 2 will include PeerDAS, enhancing Layer 2 scalability, along with changes to Ethereum’s Virtual Machine (EVM) for faster smart contract execution.
Read more: Google Cloud Launches Ethereum-Compatible Blockchain RPC Service
By splitting the upgrade, Ethereum ensures timely improvements, focusing on scalability, security, and interoperability across both Layer 1 and Layer 2 applications.
