Layer 2 Scaling Solutions

When talking about Layer 2, a set of protocols that sit on top of the base blockchain to boost speed and cut costs. Also known as L2, it lets users move most activity off the main chain while still inheriting its security.

One core piece of the puzzle is the Rollup, an L2 design that bundles many transactions into a single proof submitted to the base layer. Rollups come in two flavors – optimistic and zero‑knowledge – and they both reduce gas fees dramatically. Another approach uses Sidechain, an independent blockchain that runs in parallel and bridges back to the mainnet. Sidechains sacrifice a bit of security for higher throughput, which makes them ideal for gaming or NFT marketplaces. A third, more experimental method is Plasma, a hierarchy of child chains that settle periodically on the main chain. Plasma is great for bulk payments but can be slower to exit. These three entities – rollup, sidechain, and plasma – each shape how Layer 2 delivers speed, lower costs, and scalability.

Why Layer 2 matters today

Imagine trying to buy a coffee on a network where every transaction costs $10 in gas. That’s the reality on a congested base chain. Layer 2 steps in, enabling cheap micro‑transactions and keeping apps responsive. It also opens the door for new business models: decentralized finance protocols can offer near‑instant swaps, game developers can run fast play‑to‑earn loops, and enterprises can settle cross‑border payments without breaking the bank. At the same time, developers need to understand the trade‑offs – rollups keep most security on‑chain, sidechains give you freedom but demand separate validators, and plasma requires careful exit strategies.

Below you’ll find our hand‑picked articles that break down everything from real‑world L2 use cases to step‑by‑step guides on moving assets between layers. Whether you’re curious about gas savings, looking for the right rollup for your DeFi project, or need to compare sidechain security, the collection has you covered. Dive in and see how the Seven‑G framework (Guides, Gains, Gas, Governance, Graphs, Gateways) applies to Layer 2 solutions, giving you practical tools to navigate this fast‑moving space.