Definition ∞ Rollup design is an architectural approach for scaling blockchains by executing transactions off-chain and then posting compressed data to the main chain. This involves aggregating numerous transactions into a single batch, processing them on a separate layer-2 network, and subsequently submitting a cryptographic proof or minimal data summary to the underlying blockchain. This significantly increases transaction throughput and reduces fees on the main chain. Rollups are generally categorized into optimistic and zero-knowledge types, each with distinct security models.
Context ∞ Rollup design is a primary focus for scaling solutions in major blockchain ecosystems, particularly Ethereum, addressing its current limitations in transaction capacity. The ongoing debate involves the security models and efficiency trade-offs between optimistic rollups and ZK-rollups, as developers refine their approaches. Future developments aim for greater decentralization, improved data availability, and enhanced interoperability among different rollup solutions to create a more efficient ecosystem.