Ethereum co-founder, Vitalik Buterin, has shared an ambitious vision for the blockchain’s long-term sustainability, introducing what he calls the “walkaway test.” This concept emphasizes the need for Ethereum to function independently, even if its core developers vanish tomorrow.
What is the ‘Walkaway Test’?
Vitalik compares Ethereum to owning a hammer: once it’s in your hands, it should work regardless of the manufacturer’s existence. Similarly, Ethereum should maintain its efficiency and functionality without depending on a central team of builders or developers. “Ethereum must pass the walkaway test,” Buterin stated. “It must reach a point where ossification is possible.”
Key Upgrades for Ethereum’s Resilience
Vitalik outlined seven pivotal upgrades that Ethereum must implement in the coming years to achieve this level of independence. These upgrades aim to make the network scalable, secure, and cryptographically robust for at least 100 years. Notably, he highlighted prioritizing quantum resistance to safeguard Ethereum from potential future threats posed by quantum computing.
One of the goals includes transitioning to a system where future changes to the network involve altering parameters rather than overhauling protocols. This change would allow validators to vote on scaling adaptations, much like how gas limits are currently adjusted.
Trustless Collateral and Community Support
Buterin envisions Ethereum as a long-term, trustless source of collateral, pointing to applications such as ETH-backed stablecoins that require minimal governance. His vision has received widespread support from the crypto community. One user remarked that prioritizing long-term durability over constant tweaks ensures Ethereum remains a dependable foundation for decentralized applications.
Why Long-Term Focus Matters
According to Buterin, the ultimate test of a blockchain’s value lies in its ability to function independently of incentives, teams, or central authorities. Ethereum, in this context, aims to act as durable infrastructure rather than a fragile platform. As Vitalik aptly put it, “Do the right thing once, based on knowledge of what is truly the right thing.”
The Future of Ethereum
By checking off one major item per year on his upgrade list, Buterin hopes to prepare Ethereum for a stable future. In his words, “Ethereum goes hard. This is the gwei.” This proactive preparation reflects the long-term vision of creating a blockchain capable of lasting decades, regardless of external circumstances.
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