Base moves beyond Optimism’s tech stack
Coinbase-backed Base, a decentralized Ethereum layer-2 (L2) scaling network, is transitioning from Optimism’s OP Stack to its own unified software architecture. The move marks a major milestone for the fast-growing L2 network as it aims to streamline upgrades, reduce external dependencies, and strengthen its long-term position in the Ethereum ecosystem.
Launched in 2023 as an Optimism chain, Base has operated using Optimism’s layer-2 technology stack. Now, the Base engineering team confirmed that the network will consolidate its software into a single, official Base client distribution.
According to the announcement, this architectural shift will simplify how Base packages and releases upgrades. Instead of multiple components, the network will ship one official Base binary for node operators, making it easier to run and maintain validator infrastructure.
Importantly, Base will remain open-source. The team encouraged developers to continue building unique implementations on top of the protocol, reinforcing its commitment to decentralization and ecosystem growth.
Streamlining upgrades and improving sequencer efficiency
The transition is designed to shorten the time required to ship upgrades and reduce reliance on third-party service providers. By consolidating its infrastructure, Base expects faster iteration cycles and smoother technical deployments.
Another key benefit is the simplification of the network’s sequencer. The sequencer plays a crucial role in Ethereum layer-2 networks by ordering transactions before they are finalized on Ethereum’s layer-1 blockchain. A more streamlined sequencer architecture could improve operational efficiency and long-term scalability.
The rollout will take place in four phases, according to the Base roadmap. Node operators will be required to migrate to the new Base client over the coming months in order to receive official network upgrades.
Ethereum scaling debate intensifies
Base’s architectural transition comes amid a broader debate about Ethereum scaling and the future role of layer-2 networks.
Earlier this month, Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin signaled a shift in his perspective on L2 scaling strategies. Buterin noted that many Ethereum layer-2 networks are taking longer than expected to achieve full decentralization. At the same time, Ethereum’s layer-1 network has made significant progress in scaling, with record-low transaction fees.
“The original vision of L2s and their role in Ethereum no longer makes sense, and we need a new path,” Buterin said in February.
His comments sparked mixed reactions across the Ethereum ecosystem. Some L2 teams acknowledged that scaling solutions must evolve beyond simply offering cheaper execution compared to Ethereum L1.
Base founder Jesse Pollak responded positively to Ethereum’s L1 improvements, saying that scaling the base layer benefits the entire ecosystem. He added that layer-2 networks cannot rely solely on being “Ethereum but cheaper” and must offer differentiated value.
Other L2 founders argue that scaling networks are already aligned with Ethereum’s long-term roadmap and remain essential for handling high transaction throughput, DeFi growth, and Web3 adoption.
Over 128 Ethereum layer-2 networks compete
According to L2Beat data, there are currently more than 128 Ethereum layer-2 scaling networks. This growing competition underscores the importance of technical differentiation, decentralization progress, and efficient infrastructure.
By moving to its own unified software architecture, Base is positioning itself for greater operational independence while continuing to support Ethereum’s broader scaling vision.
As Ethereum’s scaling narrative evolves, Base’s transition could signal a new phase in the L2 landscape — one focused on performance optimization, streamlined upgrades, and deeper ecosystem integration.
