Metis is a Layer-2 network that enhances Ethereum’s scalability by consolidating Ethereum transactions and executing them off-chain before returning them for on-chain recording. The network offers several key features, including an NFT bridge that connects its Andromeda network with Ethereum, efficient storage solutions for NFTs, a comprehensive framework for decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs), and middleware tools that aid developers in managing their smart contracts. Within the Metis ecosystem, the Metis token (METIS) serves multiple purposes such as staking and covering transaction fees.
What is a layer-2 solution?
Layer-2 refers to a collection of solutions designed to enhance scalability for applications by processing transactions off the Ethereum Mainnet (layer 1).
Each solution offers its own set of advantages and trade-offs, including considerations related to security, transaction costs, scalability, and functionality. It is important to note that these trade-offs often represent crucial features. Initially, there was no single solution that could address all these challenges simultaneously. However, one notable solution emerged known as rollups.
Rollups execute transactions on layer-2, which exists outside the main Ethereum chain (layer 1), but the transaction data is ultimately posted on layer 1. This approach effectively resolves the primary challenge by reducing gas fees for users, allowing broad participation, and enabling high-speed transaction processing.
Metis Solution Overview
Metis aims to revolutionize blockchain-based collaboration and provide a comprehensive framework for addressing layer 1 challenges on the Ethereum Mainnet.
Metis offers a unified solution to the most significant issues encountered on the Ethereum Mainnet.
To tackle the issue of high gas fees, Metis adopts Layer-2 rollups as a solution. Rollups can be categorized into two types: ZK rollup and optimistic rollup.
ZK (Zero Knowledge) Rollup
ZK rollups bundle transactions on layer-2 and generate zero-knowledge proofs, such as SNARKs (succinct non-interactive arguments of knowledge), to verify their validity. These proofs are then posted on layer 1.
Optimistic Rollup
Optimistic rollup first processes transactions on layer-2 and combines them into a single block on layer 1, assuming that all validators are honest by default (hence the name “optimistic”). It does not perform actual computations by default, as computation is the slow and expensive part of utilizing Ethereum. Depending on the transaction, optimistic rollups can offer scalability improvements of up to 100x.
To ensure security, rollups employ a mechanism called fraud proofs, which verify the authenticity of transactions and prevent fraud.
For example, if a dispute arises regarding a transaction, the rollup executes a fraud proof and performs computation using the available state data. This process may lead to longer confirmation times for transactions, as they can be subject to challenges.
Metis employs an enhanced layer-2 rollup solution, specifically optimistic rollup, to address the confirmation time issue through its Metis Virtual Machine (MVM). MVM is compatible with the Ethereum virtual machine and separates the computation and storage aspects of Ethereum’s structure for layer-2. Consequently, Metis achieves low gas fees for transactions and shorter withdrawal waiting times.
The Metis Layer-2
Metis, a crypto protocol, falls into the category of Layer-2 scaling solutions aiming to enhance the Ethereum blockchain’s capacity to handle increased transaction volumes securely, cost-effectively, and efficiently. Currently,
Ethereum processes around 13 to 14 transactions per second (TPS), and users must pay fees for utilizing the blockchain, whether it’s for sending transactions or performing higher-level tasks like minting non-fungible tokens (NFTs). These fees depend on the computational resources required for the operation and the number of users accessing the blockchain simultaneously.
During periods of high demand, the Ethereum blockchain can become slower and more expensive to use. Layer-2 solutions such as Metis are designed to alleviate this pressure by bundling transactions together, sending them to a second-layer protocol for processing, and then returning them to Ethereum for recording.
As a result, transactions become significantly faster and more cost-efficient. However, the Metis Layer-2 solution encompasses more than just scalability; it aims to create infrastructure for the entire Web3 economy.
Metis Crypto Protocol Features In addition to its Layer-2 scaling technology, Metis offers three core products:
NFT Bridge and Storage Solution: Metis provides an NFT bridge that enables the seamless transfer of NFTs between the Ethereum blockchain and Metis’ Andromeda network. This allows users to mint NFTs on Metis, potentially saving on minting fees, and later transfer them to Ethereum. Conversely, NFTs minted on Ethereum can be sent to Metis. The Metis crypto protocol also offers NFT storage through integration with the InterPlanetary File System (IPFS), a distributed file storage system.
Decentralized Autonomous Companies (DACs) Framework: Metis offers a technological framework for DACs, which are Metis-specific versions of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). The Metis DAC framework specifically addresses governance, organization management, and incentive alignment challenges. Metis envisions DACs as superior to DAOs by leveraging reputation systems.
Joining a DAC requires holding the DAC’s token and staking a portion of those tokens upfront to filter out potential members who might harm the organization. Members establish their reputation through token staking, with longer staking durations resulting in better reputation and corresponding “reputation points.”
Polis Middleware Platform: Metis provides Polis, a middleware platform designed to assist developers in managing their deployed smart contracts on the Metis network. End users interact with Polis as a web wallet that records transaction history. Metis envisions transforming this transaction history into “reputation power” that can benefit users collaborating within DACs.
Metis Token (METIS) The Metis token (METIS) plays several roles within the Metis crypto ecosystem. Firstly, it is integral to Metis’ Layer-2 solution. When Metis bundles transactions and sends them to the Andromeda network for processing, it relies on actors known as Rangers to validate and prevent fraudulent transactions.
Rangers must stake (lock up) METIS tokens to qualify for transaction validation, and malicious actions can result in stake slashing as a penalty.
Additionally, METIS tokens can be used to pay transaction fees on the Metis Andromeda network, and users can stake METIS tokens to earn rewards. Metis also operates the “Builder Mining” program, which offers METIS crypto rewards to member DACs for each transaction conducted on the Andromeda network.
Exploring the Metis Ecosystem in Depth
Technological advancements and innovations have paved the way for significant transformations, particularly in developing a more efficient virtual economy with reduced gas fees. This evolution has given rise to Web3.0, an upgraded version of Web2.0 characterized by enhanced decentralization and improved transactional efficiency with lower gas fees.
The crypto space has witnessed remarkable developments, especially with the emergence of NFTs in the metaverse. Among the ecosystems that have emerged, MetisDAO stands out as a solution designed to address excessive gas fees on the Ethereum blockchain and minimize transaction risks.
Metis Ecosystem – Simplifying Blockchain Networks
The Metis Ecosystem is a diverse platform that facilitates multi-chain networking and enables seamless transitions from Web2.0 to Web3.0, resulting in reduced Ethereum gas fees. MetisDAO operates on a two-layer framework known as multi-Rollup, supporting various ecosystem networks and streamlining token exchange and development processes.
This ecosystem has not only empowered the MetisDAO system but also alleviated the complexities involved in coding token networks on different blockchains. It supports various functionalities such as yield farming, DEX trading, and powering the gig economy through dApps that offer fast and cost-effective micropayments.
Metis aims to eliminate the challenges faced by blockchain networks, enhancing their overall efficiency.
Understanding Metis DAC
MetisDAO incorporates the concept of Decentralized Autonomous Companies (DACs) within its Layer-2 structure. This inclusion simplifies the process of building applications and communities on the network for programmers, developers, builders, and netizens.
DACs provide pre-set tools that expedite development processes, team management, and collaborations. They also enable users to benefit from the network effects of the largest DeFi ecosystem in the virtual world without being hindered by Ethereum gas fees.
MetisDAO’s Layer-2 Impact on Ethereum Scaling
Many coins and tokens built on the Ethereum blockchain network have faced numerous challenges, impacting the market structure. Most NFT minting and trading activities occur within these blockchain networks, leading to concerns and reduced interest among crypto enthusiasts. Consequently, many projects are turning to alternative networks like Binance Smart Chain (BSC).
Metis addresses these issues through its Optimistic Rollup solution, which facilitates a more efficient transaction sequencing layer above Ethereum. After sequencing, the data is sent back to the Ethereum Layer 1 mainchain as a single transaction, thereby reducing gas fees.
This approach enables fast and cost-effective transactions, taking just a few seconds and costing only a few cents while maintaining the security of the Ethereum blockchain at Layer 1.
How MetisDAO Operates?
The Metis Layer-2 network assumes all transactions are accurate until proven otherwise. In cases where transactions are proven inaccurate, false proofs are submitted. The Layer-2 system verifies the validity of transactions, ensuring the safety of users’ assets by preventing fraudulent activities.
Metis’ Optimistic rollups have significantly reduced withdrawal and wait times, which can be activated once the Metis network is fully deployed. While normal withdrawals on Ethereum take several days for conversion, Metis reduces the duration to just a few hours and eventually to minutes, thanks to the validation of transactions by ranger networks. This advantage sets Metis Layer-2 apart from other Rollup layers offered by alternative solutions.
MetisDAO incorporates a multi-chain accumulation feature that allows the input of multiple sequences instead of a single one. This helps enhance data verification and distribute the load across multiple chains, preventing overloading on a single sequence. This results in a smoother network operation, overcoming various obstacles.
Conclusion
Metis is a smart Layer-2 blockchain solution that aims to address the scalability and cost issues of the Ethereum Mainnet. By utilizing Layer-2 rollups, such as ZK rollup and optimistic rollup, Metis provides a comprehensive framework to enhance transaction processing efficiency, reduce gas fees, and improve overall user experience.
The Metis ecosystem offers various solutions to meet the diverse needs of developers and users. It includes an NFT bridge and storage solution, a framework for decentralized autonomous companies (DACs), and a middleware platform called Polis. These components work together seamlessly to empower multi-chain networking, enable fast and cost-effective transactions, and support the growth of the Web3 economy.
MetisDAO, within the Metis ecosystem, incorporates the DAC format in its Layer-2 structure, providing an easy-to-use environment for developers, builders, and netizens to create applications and communities. With the integration of Metis Rangers as financial inducement validators, transaction verification is enhanced, ensuring the security of user assets.
The Metis token (METIS) plays a crucial role in the ecosystem, serving as a means of staking, covering transaction fees, and participating in the Builder Mining program. METIS tokens are built on the Ethereum network, making them easily accessible and user-friendly.
As blockchain technology continues to evolve, Metis is at the forefront of revolutionizing collaboration and addressing the challenges faced by the Ethereum Mainnet. With its Layer-2 solution, Metis empowers developers and users to build and transact with reduced costs, increased efficiency, and improved scalability.
