Ethereum developers have proposed a new Ethereum Improvement Proposal (EIP-7732) aimed at refining the block validation process and enhancing blockchain network speed. This proposal intends to bolster the network’s security and performance by dividing block validation into two distinct parts: consensus and execution. EIP-7732 addresses the growing need for greater efficiency in the Ethereum network, aligning with co-founder Vitalik Buterin’s push for quicker transaction confirmations.
What Does EIP-7732 Propose?
The primary feature of EIP-7732 is the Enshrined Proposer-Builder Separation (EPBS) mechanism, which separates block creation into a consensus proposer and an execution proposer. The consensus proposer selects an execution proposer, who then commits to generating a valid block containing essential details like payment or block hash for the proposer.
A validator group known as the Payload Timeliness Committee (PTC) ensures that the execution proposer delivers the committed block punctually. By splitting the consensus and execution layers, EIP-7732 aims to improve network speed and efficiency while reducing the computational burden on validators.
How Does It Impact Validators?
Currently, Ethereum validators must perform both consensus and execution tasks within a brief period, potentially causing inefficiencies and delays. The EPBS framework will enable validators to concentrate on immediate consensus validation and postpone execution validation, thereby maintaining network performance and security without compromising efficiency.
Concrete User Inferences
Here are some key takeaways from EIP-7732:
- Validators will experience reduced computational load, improving efficiency.
- Faster transaction confirmation times could be achieved, enhancing user experience.
- Eliminating middleware can streamline processes, ensuring trustless exchanges.
The proposed changes, while promising increased transaction speeds, may necessitate another hard fork involving backward-incompatible modifications. As discussions around EIP-7732 continue, stakeholders are optimistic about the potential improvements in network performance and efficiency.