Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has announced plans to improve the blockchain’s Proof-of-Stake system with a new upgrade called “The Verge.” Buterin highlighted the current challenges of running an Ethereum node due to high data requirements, limiting the number of users who can participate in fully verifying the chain. The Verge update aims to introduce stateless client verification, allowing devices to validate blockchain data without storing the entire dataset locally, making it more accessible for users.
Initially focused on Verkle trees for compact proofs, The Verge update has expanded to include stateless validation techniques and advanced cryptographic proofs like SNARKs. By integrating these technologies, Ethereum’s verification process can become more efficient and allow for participation on small devices like smartwatches. Stateless verification eliminates the need for nodes to store all blockchain data, improving performance and user experience while making solo staking more accessible.
Buterin’s proposal involves replacing Ethereum’s current state structure with either Verkle trees or STARKed binary hash trees to enhance scalability and security. These changes aim to overcome the limitations of the existing proof systems and make Ethereum more inclusive for a broader range of users. The Verge update is part of ongoing efforts to enhance Ethereum’s PoS system and make blockchain verification more efficient and user-friendly, ultimately expanding the network’s reach and usability.
