On-Chain Scaling

Definition ∞ On-chain scaling refers to methods of increasing the transaction processing capacity and speed of a blockchain network by making direct improvements to the base layer protocol. This approach aims to handle more transactions per second by modifying parameters like block size, block time, or consensus mechanisms. It seeks to enhance the fundamental throughput of the distributed ledger itself. Such modifications directly affect the core network.
Context ∞ On-chain scaling is a significant and often contentious topic in blockchain development, with debates frequently contrasting it with off-chain scaling solutions like layer-2 networks. Projects like Bitcoin and Ethereum have different approaches to addressing scalability at the base layer. Future advancements in on-chain scaling focus on innovations in sharding, more efficient consensus algorithms, and improved data structures to support wider adoption without compromising decentralization or security.