Metaprotocol Support

Definition ∞ Metaprotocol support signifies a blockchain’s ability to host and facilitate secondary protocols built upon its base layer. This capability permits the construction of new functionalities and applications that leverage the underlying blockchain’s security and data integrity without modifying its core rules. Metaprotocols extend the utility of the base chain, enabling diverse use cases such as non-fungible tokens or decentralized identity solutions. It represents a method for expanding a blockchain’s capabilities through layered innovation and modular design.
Context ∞ The discussion surrounding metaprotocol support is currently prominent, especially with the emergence of new applications like Ordinals on the Bitcoin network, which demonstrate how base layers can support additional data structures. A key debate involves the potential impact of these metaprotocols on the base chain’s transaction fees, block space utilization, and long-term security. Future developments will likely involve optimizing how base layers accommodate and interact with these secondary protocols, balancing innovation with network health.