Layer-1 Infrastructure

Definition ∞ Layer-1 infrastructure refers to the foundational blockchain network itself, including its core protocol, consensus mechanism, and native token. Examples include Bitcoin, Ethereum, and Solana. This base layer processes and records transactions directly on its main ledger, establishing the primary security and decentralization properties of the system. It forms the bedrock upon which other applications and scaling solutions are built.
Context ∞ Debates surrounding scalability, transaction fees, and network congestion frequently center on the limitations and advancements of layer-1 infrastructure. News reports often compare the throughput and finality of different layer-1 chains, as these factors critically influence their utility for various decentralized applications. The ongoing development of layer-1 protocols remains a central theme in blockchain innovation.