Entering the Next Phase with Polygon 2.0

Introduction

Polygon is coming out to be a game-changer in the blockchain ecosystem day by day. It continuously aims to offer a scalable and cost-effective platform for decentralized applications (dApps). In my previous article, Enhancing Blockchain Efficiency with Polygon 2.0, we explored the wonders of Polygon 2.0 and its game-changing impact on the blockchain industry. With further updates in Polygon 2.0, we are advancing to the next level.

In this article, we will dive into the deeper depths of Polygon 2.0, exploring Protocol architecture and POL tokenomics. We will also be uncovering the three pillars of governance.

So, let's start our journey and dive headfirst into the wonders of Polygon 2.0, a realm where invention has no boundaries.

Protocol Architecture

The Polygon 2.0 architecture is defined as a set of protocol layers. There are a total of four protocol layers, each playing a vital role in creating an elastically scalable and unified environment for accessing value.

Four protocol layers

1. Staking Layer: The Staking Layer is the backbone of Polygon 2.0. This layer is based on the Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus method. Validators stake their Polygon tokens to participate in block validation and secure the network. The more tokens a validator invests, the more likely they are to be picked to build blocks and collect rewards. The Staking Layer brings decentralization to the Polygon chains through a common validator pool. Validators can stake their tokens and re-stake to multiple Polygon chains, making it easier for teams to focus on developing use cases and communities rather than managing infrastructure.
2. Interop Layer: The interop layer is just like a master communicator in Polygon 2.0. Within the polygon ecosystem, it enables easy and secure cross-chain connectivity. Consider it a shared Ethereum bridge, allowing users to transfer native Ethereum assets between chains without the need for complex token wrapping or minting. This layer conceals the complexities of cross-chain communications, giving consumers the impression that the whole Polygon network is a single chain.
3. Execution Layer: The execution layer in Polygon 2.0 is responsible for processing transactions and creating blocks. It allows any Polygon chain to generate blocks, which are ordered collections of transactions. This layer follows a relatively standardized format that is commonly used in most blockchain networks. Components like P2P (Peer-to-Peer) and Consensus enable nodes (validators and full nodes), to discover each other, exchange messages, and reach agreement on a single version of the truth. The Mempool receives transactions submitted by users and syncs them among the validators for processing.
4. Proving Layer: The proving layer generates proofs for all transactions. It generates proofs for all internal and cross-chain transactions for each Polygon chain. This is where zero-knowledge proofs (ZKPs) come into play. The common prover in the Proving Layer is very productive and efficient, and it is designed to support a wide range of transaction types. It significantly decreases the computational cost associated with transaction validation while maintaining the highest level of security and privacy. Polygon 2.0 provides fast evidence generation and verification using the Proving Layer, allowing for smooth cross-chain communication and safe interactions throughout different state machines.

reference - https://polygon.technology/blog

Each layer of Polygon 2.0's Protocol Architecture has a distinct function in creating an elastically scalable and unified environment for value access. The Staking Layer enables decentralization, the Interop Layer links the chains, the Execution Layer keeps transactions moving, and the Proving Layer maintains efficiency and security.

All these layers, together, create the value layer of the internet for users to utilize the full potential of blockchain.

POL Tokenomics

Open-source software has been an essential component of our society. But on the other hand, motivating and encouraging contributors to contribute to open-source software has been challenging for many projects. Blockchain protocols and native tokens (currencies) have transformed this environment a lot by making open-source software self-sustaining and powerful.

Polygon 2.0, the improved version of the Polygon network, features a redesigned protocol architecture as well as a new native coin called POL. POL is the third generation of native assets, bringing in a new era of participant participation and ecosystem coordination.

Evolution of native Tokens

While Bitcoin's BTC initiated the age of native tokens, Ethereum's ETH advanced it by adding productive tokens, which allow validators to perform valuable work and be rewarded by getting paid for the work they do for the network. Now Polygon 2.0 takes this a step further, as POL allows validators to validate multiple chains, opening up endless opportunities for holders.

Major Benefits of POL

POL's improved protocol design offers several important features to the Polygon ecosystem.

1. Ecosystem Security
2. Infinite Scalability
3. Ecosystem support
4. Community ownership

Multifold Utility and Incentives

POL's utility revolves around validators, aligning and incentivizing them to contribute to the network. It is essential for validators to join the validator set by staking POL. Staking for the validator set prevents Sybil attacks and also aligns the interests of the validators with the success of the ecosystem. It also protects the ecosystem from malicious validators by enabling punishment against malicious validators.

After they successfully stake POL, or in other words, once the validator enters the validator pool, they become eligible as a participant to validate any Polygon chain. For performing their useful work, validators can generate at least three different incentive streams.

1. Protocol rewards: These rewards are the base protocol rewards. These are distributed among all active developers of the protocol
2. Transaction fees: Validators are allowed to collect transaction fees from all the chains they validate.
3. Additional Rewards: Some polygon chains may offer additional rewards in various tokens to attract more validators for their network.

We should keep in mind that the concept of validation is more widespread in Polygon than it appears. In addition to validators being able to validate multiple chains, it is also possible for validators to perform multiple roles on a single chain. These roles can vary from accepting transactions and generating blocks to generating zero-knowledge proofs and many more.

reference - https://polygon.technology/blog

Future-Proof Ecosystem

It will take time for both the Polygon ecosystem and Web3 to mature and receive mass adoption. Thus, to ensure Polygon's long-term growth, it proposed to introduce continuous POL emissions to fund the Community treasury. This community treasury should have enough funds to support activities like -

• Protocol development
• Protocol research
• Ecosystem grants
• Adoption incentives, etc.

The community treasury would be governed by the Polygon community.

Upgrading from MATIC to POL is going to be a simple process - holders need to send MATIC to the upgrade smart contract, which will automatically return the equivalent amount of POL. Holders are to be given sufficient time to upgrade to the new technology, ensuring a smooth transition.

Pillars of Governance

As we are changing every aspect of Polygon with Polygon 2.0, it is crucial that the model used for the governance of this system evolve as well. Community involvement and decentralized decision-making will be the most important aspects of the success of Polgon 2.0.

To prepare for Polygon 2.0 governance, a forward-looking framework for decentralization decision-making and ownership within the Polygon ecosystem is being introduced. This framework introduces three governance pillars, each representing a key aspect of the ecosystem that requires governance.

The three pillars of governance

The governance framework defines three important governance pillars, which are -

1. Protocol Governance: This governance is modeled after the PIP (Polygon Improvement Proposal) framework. It provides an open coordination platform for the development of Polygon protocols. The protocol governance framework is already operational on the Polygon PoS chain and will eventually expand to cover the entire Polygon permissionless stack in Polygon 2.0.
2. System Smart Contract Governance: When upgrading smart contract components, we require additional governance due to the nature of Ethereum smart contracts. The proposed Ecosystem Council will be a community-governed body responsible for upgrading smart contracts in the system, with a custom governance architecture ensuring secure and efficient decision-making.
3. Community Treasury Governance: The community treasury is a self-sustainable fund. The governance of this treasury will go through two phases, with the first phase focusing on the establishment of an independent Community Treasury Board and the second phase focusing on the evolution to increase community-driven governance of the Community Treasury Board and the Treasury.

With the Polygon 2.0 vision in place, community input is even more important. Polygon's future will be shaped by a decentralized community for a decentralized protocol.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Polygon 2.0 has the potential to transform the blockchain industry with its scalable and cost-effective platform for decentralized applications. Its four-layer Protocol Architecture guarantees an identical and elastically scalable environment for value access. Its POL tokenomics presents a third-generation native asset, providing validators with incentives and chances to contribute to the ecosystem's success, and with its governance model being redesigned with a community-driven approach, Polygon 2.0 aims to unlock the full potential of blockchain technology and build a future that revolutionizes decentralized applications.

FAQ's

Q. What is the main goal of Polygon 2.0's Protocol Architecture?

A. The main goal of Polygon 2.0's Protocol Architecture is to create an elastically scalable and unified environment for accessing value. It comprises four layers - Staking Layer, Interop Layer, Execution Layer, and Proving Layer - each serving a vital role in achieving this goal.

Q. How does POL Tokenomics differ from traditional token systems?

A. POL Tokenomics introduces a third generation of native assets that offer more incentives and opportunities for validators. Unlike traditional token systems, POL allows validators to validate multiple chains and perform multiple roles on a single chain, maximizing their potential rewards and contributions to the ecosystem.

Q. How does the upgrade from MATIC to POL work?

A. The upgrade from MATIC to POL is a simple process. Holders need to send their MATIC tokens to the upgrade smart contract, and in return, the equivalent amount of POL will be automatically returned to them. Holders will be given ample time to complete the upgrade, ensuring a smooth transition.

Q. How does the governance model of Polygon 2.0 involve the community?

A. The governance model of Polygon 2.0 involves the community through three pillars - Protocol Governance, System Smart Contract Governance, and Community Treasury Governance. These pillars provide open coordination platforms and decision-making mechanisms where the community can actively participate and shape the future of the ecosystem.

Q. What are the major benefits of POL Tokenomics for the Polygon ecosystem?

A. The major benefits of POL Tokenomics for the Polygon ecosystem include enhanced security through a highly decentralized pool of validators, infinite scalability to support future growth, sustainable funding through the Community Treasury, and the ability for the community to hold governance rights, ensuring a decentralized and community-driven ecosystem.