OP Mainnet tests 'fault proofs' in bid to strengthen network security

OP +2.18% Labs, the core developer of Optimism, released fault proofs on the OP Sepolia testnet before their upcoming implementation on the OP Mainnet.

“Open-source, feature-complete fault proofs are live on OP Sepolia. With permissionless validation, anyone can participate in the system without an allowlist,” the firm stated.

Fault proofs serve as security mechanism for Ethereum Layer 2 networks, enabling users to contest transactions that may be fraudulent or incorrect. They are critical in ensuring that off-chain transaction processing remains free from manipulation.

The OP Mainnet currently lacks fault proofs, a cause for concern regarding the network’s security and decentralization. This implies that within the network, users are required to place their trust in block producers to submit accurate Layer 1 state roots. Additionally, the network depends on a security council of members for backups.

Now, the project is also moving toward implementing them, having already used them on its Sepolia testnet.

OP Mainnet and other Optimism ecosystem chains use a scaling solution called optimistic rollups for operation. This technology aggregates Ethereum transactions on a secondary off-chain layer and allows for cheaper transaction processing to address scalability concerns on Ethereum.

OP Labs, the developer of OP Mainnet, also operates a development software stack known as the OP Stack, which enables developers to launch their own Layer 2 blockchains. Crypto exchange giant Coinbase developed its blockchain, called Base, using the OP Stack.

Most optimistic rollup blockchains have yet to decentralize their networks with the help of incorporating fault proofs and maintaining decentralized contract upgrades. That said, Optimism's closest competitor, Arbitrum, already offers fault proofs.