Explore the layers of the Web3 Protocol Stacks in this comprehensive analysis, and discover how they enable a decentralized and secure internet.
The emergence of web3 has revolutionized the way we think about the Internet. The web3 protocol stack, being the backbone of web3 includes various protocols and technologies that work together to create a decentralized, secure, and private internet. In this comprehensive analysis, we will dive deep into each layer of the web protocol stack and explore the different protocols and technologies used in each layer. We will also examine how these layers work together to enable developers to build secure, private, resilient decentralized applications and services.
What is Web3 Protocol Stack?
Web3 protocol stack refers to a set of protocols, standards, and technology that enables the development of decentralized applications and services on the blockchain. The web3 protocol stack consists of several layers, each of which serves a specific function in the overall architecture of web3. The Layers can be divided into:
Layer 0: Infrastructure
Layer 1: Protocols
Layer 2: Utilities
Layer 3: Applications
Layer 0: Infrastructure
At the roots of web3 is the infrastructure layer that is made up of underlying technological components that support the decentralized blockchain structure. This layer provides the foundation for decentralized applications to be built.
The functions of the infrastructure layer
The infrastructure layer provides the concept of computing. This is how blockchain networks are connected
This layer creates nodes for the decentralized web. These nodes make interaction with the blockchain possible.
The infrastructure layer just builds the decentralization base of web3. "Web3 === decentralization"
The web3 infrastructure features a storage unit which ensures a safer environment
Layer 1: Protocols
The layer 1 protocol consists of the blockchain network and consensus mechanisms that ensure the integrity and security of the network.
Fundamental operations of the protocol layer
Consensus mechanism: The blockchain consensus is a procedure where nodes of a blockchain network reach an agreement about the present state of the data in the network. The types of consensus mechanisms are Proof-of-work, Proof-of-stake, and Delegated-proof-of-stake.
Dispute resolution: This is a process of resolving disputes that arises in the context of blockchain-based transactions and smart contract operations. Approaches to this include smart contract design, Decentralized governance, and decentralized dispute
Sidechains: The side chain is a blockchain-adjacent transactional chain that is used for large-batch transactions. This helps optimize Decentralized applications' speed and scalability.
Layer 2: Utilities
This layer is meant to enhance decentralized applications' productivity. This makes use of third-party integration.
Components of the Utility Layer
Oracles: These are third-party services that provide off-chain(real-world) data and information to decentralized applications on the blockchain. A good example of an oracle is Chainlink
Wallets: These are programs that store users' private and public keys. Wallets are used for interaction in web3.
Digital Assets: These include NFTs, crypto, and stablecoins.
Smart contracts: We can't talk about third parties(utilities) without mentioning smart contracts. Smart contracts are code-based agreements made on the blockchain.
RPCs: RPC (Remote Procedure Call) is a protocol used for communication between client and server applications over a network. Web3 is a collection of libraries that allow developers to interact with blockchain networks, such as Ethereum, via the RPC protocol. RPCs allow developers to build powerful decentralized applications that can leverage the full potential of blockchain technology. examples are Moralis, Alchemy, Quicknode, etc,
Development environment: A development environment is a software for building applications. some are Hardhat, foundry, and brownie.
SDKs: An SDK (Software Development Kit) is a collection of software development tools and libraries that enable developers to interact with the blockchain network via a specific programming language or platform. These SDKs make it easier for developers to build decentralized applications (dApps) on the blockchain by providing a set of pre-built tools, functions, and templates that can be used to interact with the network.
Layer 3: Applications
This layer is the final product of the web3 stack. These applications are built on the utilities layer, which provides the necessary infrastructure for running Dapps. Dapps mean Decentralized applications and they include:
Social networks
Marketplaces
Gaming protocols
Financial services
Decentralized storage
Benefits of the web3 stack
Web3 having backbone/base/roots sets out the following benefits:
Decentralization
Security
Privacy
Interoperability
In conclusion, the Web3 protocol stack is a powerful and rapidly evolving ecosystem that is transforming the way we interact with the internet and digital assets. With its focus on decentralization, transparency, and security, the Web3 stack offers a wide range of technologies and protocols that enable users to transact and interact in a trustless and secure manner.
From blockchain networks and decentralized applications to layer-2 scaling solutions and privacy-enhancing technologies, the Web3 stack is driving innovation and creating new opportunities across a wide range of industries and sectors. With the continued growth and development of the Web3 ecosystem, we can expect to see even more exciting use cases and applications emerge in the years ahead.
As we move towards a more decentralized and transparent future, it is important for businesses, developers, and individuals to stay informed and engaged with the Web3 ecosystem. By embracing these technologies and protocols, we can help shape the future of the internet and create a more open, secure, and inclusive digital world for everyone.