- Ethereum to simplify both consensus and execution layers in 2025
- Vitalik Buterin proposes RISC-V and “beam chain” to cut protocol complexity
- Protocol shift aims to improve resilience, decentralization, and validator access
Ethereum (ETH) developers are taking on a major simplification effort for the core protocol, targeting improved resilience and scalability. This push addresses concerns that the current network’s complexity creates long-term risks like high development overhead and a large attack surface, aiming for a leaner design closer to Bitcoin’s philosophy.
At the core of this shift is the recognition that simplicity isn’t just about fewer lines of code; it’s about making the protocol more understandable, robust, and decentralized.
Vitalik Buterin, Ethereum’s co-founder, is now pushing for a radical redesign that restructures both the consensus and execution layers, enabling a leaner and more sustainable future.
New Consensus: “Beam Chain” Proposal Targets Simplicity
A key proposal, the “beam chain”, aims to streamline the consensus mechanism significantly. The plan replaces the current epoch-slot system with a “3-slot finality” model. This not only improves clarity but also reduces code complexity.
This new model uses fewer active validators and incorporates STARK-based aggregation for better network safety and efficiency. These changes allow Ethereum to adopt a leaner peer-to-peer architecture, cutting dependence on specialized nodes.
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In addition, simplified validator processes for exits and key changes lower participation barriers, supporting Ethereum’s goal of minimal trust and maximum access.
Execution Layer Overhaul: Replacing EVM with RISC-V
Ethereum’s execution model is also targeted for a major update in these proposals. Proponents of the change, including Buterin, view the current Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) with its 256-bit architecture as inefficient for future network demands.
Buterin proposes replacing the EVM with a RISC-V based architecture or a zero-knowledge-friendly virtual machine (ZK-VM). This proposed change offers efficiency gains calculated at over 100x in specific operations and drastically cuts interpreter overhead.
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Crucially, existing smart contracts remain compatible because they will run through an on-chain RISC-V-based EVM interpreter. This mechanism maintains backward compatibility while also reducing consensus-critical code and opening Ethereum development to mainstream programming languages.
Shared Standards: Trees, Serialization, and Erasure Codes
Beyond the VM, the simplification effort includes unifying Ethereum’s underlying data standards. For example, standardizing data serialization using SSZ (Simple Serialize) and adopting a single Merkle tree format across the protocol will cut redundant code and increase efficiency.
Similarly, using one universal erasure code standard for data availability, network broadcasting, and history storage will improve system reliability and lower development costs.
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