Layer 3 (App Chains)

Appchains let you create a blockchain designed precisely for your application’s needs. These specialized blockchains allow customization in various aspects, such as hash functions and consensus algorithms. Moreover, they inherit the security features of the Layer 1 or Layer 2 blockchains they are built upon.

Example:

Layer 3 blockchains can exist on top of Layer 2 blockchains. You can even build additional layers (Layer 4 and so on) on top of Layer 3 for more complex solutions. A sample layout is shown in the following diagram.

Example of an environment with a Layers 3 and 4

Example of an environment with a Layers 3 and 4

In this example ecosystem, Layer 3 options include:

  • The Public Starknet (L2), which is a general-purpose blockchain for decentralized applications.

  • A L3 Starknet optimized for cost-sensitive applications.

  • Customized L3 Starknet systems designed for enhanced performance, using specific storage structures or data compression techniques.

  • StarkEx systems used by platforms like dYdX and Sorare, offering proven scalability through data availability solutions like Validium or Rollup.

  • Privacy-focused Starknet instances, which could also function as a Layer 4, for conducting transactions without including them in public Starknets.

Benefits of Layer 3

Layer 3 app chains (with Madara as an apt sequencer or other option), offer a variety of advantages due to its modularity and flexibility. Here’s an overview of the key benefits:

  • Quick Iteration: App chains enable rapid protocol changes, freeing you from the constraints of the public Layer 2 roadmap. For example, you could rapidly deploy new DeFi algorithms tailored to your user base.

  • Governance Independence: You maintain complete control over feature development and improvements, avoiding the need for decentralized governance consensus. This enables, for example, quick implementation of user-suggested features.

  • Cost Efficiency: Layer 3 offers substantial cost reductions, potentially up to 1 million times compared to Layer 1, making it economically feasible to run more complex applications.

  • Security: While there may be some trade-offs, such as reduced censorship resistance, the core security mechanisms remain strong.

  • Congestion Avoidance: App chains are shielded from network congestion, providing a more stable transaction environment, crucial for real-time applications like gaming.

  • Privacy Enhancements: Layer 3 can serve as a testing ground for privacy-centric features, which could include anonymous transactions or encrypted messaging services.

  • Innovation Platform: App chains act as experimental fields where novel features can be developed and tested. For instance, they could serve as a testbed for new consensus algorithms before these are considered for Layer 2.

In summary, Layer 3 provides the flexibility, cost-efficiency, and environment conducive for innovation, without significant compromise on security.

Madara as a Sequencer for Layer 3 App Chains

Madara is a specialized sequencer developed to execute transactions and group them into batches. Created by the StarkWare Exploration Team, it functions as a starting point for building Layer 3 Starknet appchains. This expands the possibilities for innovation within the Starknet ecosystem.

Madara’s flexibility allows for the creation of Layer 3 appchains optimized for various needs, for example:

  • Cost-Efficiency: Create an appchain for running a decentralized exchange (DEX) with lower fees compared to the public Starknet.

  • Performance: Build an appchain to operate a DEX with faster transaction times.

  • Privacy: Design an appchain to facilitate anonymous transactions or encrypted messaging services.

For more information on Madara, refer to the subchapter with the same title.