What Is a Layer 1 Blockchain?

A layer 1 blockchain is a network that can finalize transactions and validate them within its own infrastructure without needing support from other networks. Layer 1 blockchain networks have their own native coin that is used to pay for transaction fees on their network. Another name for a blockchain is also smart contract platform. Consider a layer 1 blockchain as the initial layer, or base layer that contains the architectural framework for the network. When development occurs on the network, and projects are built, this is done on top of the structural foundation. Consider the base layer a settlement layer for all DeFi and web3 projects that are built on it. CIC Chain is a layer 1 blockchain, other notable examples of layer 1 blockchains include but are not limited to….

• Cardano
• Tron
• Solana
• Avalanche
• Near
• Ethereum
• Bitcoin

Blockchain technology has changed vastly over the years. A common problem all blockchains have faced thus far has been the Blockchain Trilemma. This term was made popular by co-founder of Ethereum, Vitalik Buterin. There are 3 key elements that make up the blockchain trilemma….

The blockchain trilemma refers to the notion that it is difficult for blockchains to achieve optimal levels of all three properties at the same time. When one is strengthened, the other is usually weakened.

All blockchains, in their own way, have attempted to solve this trilemma and bring balance between all 3 elements. Some networks have even gone as far as to rely on other technologies or networks built on top of their network, like Ethereum or Bitcoin.

What is a Layer 2 blockchain?

A layer 2 blockchain is a network that operates on top of a layer 1 blockchain to assist it with improving its scalability and efficiency. A common name for layer 2 blockchains is Scaling solutions. There are a few different types of scaling solutions that currently exist. Bitcoin is an example of a popular layer 1 blockchain, and the Lightning Network is a layer 2 scaling solution design to help with the scalability and speed of transactions. Ethereum is a layer one blockchain, and has numerous different types of scaling solutions available. Examples of layer 2 scaling solutions include but are not limited to state channels, side chains, plasma, optimistic rollups, and zk-rollups. Layer 2 can be interpreted as not just a network built on top of a layer 1 network but it can also be a technology that operates on top of a blockchain protocol to aid in scalability and efficiency.

There are several layer 2 solutions, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages. Examples of popular layer 2 scaling solutions that work with the Ethereum network include but are not limited to…

Optimistic rollups

· Optimism

· Offchain Labs Arbitrum Rollup

· Fuel Network

ZK rollups

· Loopring

· Starkware

· Matter Labs zkSync

· Aztec 2.0

Validium

· Starkware

· Matter Labs zkPorter

Plasma

· OMG Network

· Gazelle

· Matic Network

· LeapDAO

State channels

· Connext

· Raiden

· Perun

Sidechains

· Skale

· POA Network

Hybrid solutions

· Offchain Labs Arbitrum SCSC

· Celer

How does this relate to CIC Chain?

Since the debut of blockchain technology there has been a persistent problem present that has proven difficult to solve. When you fix one element of the trilemma, another element usually is subject to worsening conditions. The blockchain trilemma has plagued blockchain technology since its inception. CIC chain is the exception, and does not need any 3rd party technology or network to assist it with managing transactions. The architectural framework of the CIC Chain is designed with various layers that each play a pivotal role is maintaining the efficiency, speed, and scalability of the network. The system components that comprise the different layers allow for scalability, speed, and decentralization without sacrificing one or the other. They maintain a perfect balance between all three and are capable of scaling to block heights that many have once thought to be impossible.

Most blockchains have one or maybe even two layers, CIC Chain has seven layers. These seven layers all work in perfect harmony to ensure that we can meet the ever-growing demand of not only the public sector but the private sector without sacrificing speed, security, scalability or decentralization.