Recently, the cryptocurrency community was stirred by a bold statement from Anatoly Yakovenko, the co-founder of the popular Solana network. In a notable social media post, Yakovenko expressed his concerns regarding Layer-2 solutions, suggesting that these rollups add unnecessary complexity to blockchain scaling rather than providing meaningful benefits.
Layer-2 Not Needed?
In a candid post on X, Yakovenko proclaimed that Layer-2 cryptocurrencies contribute to redundancy in the blockchain ecosystem. He emphasized that Layer-1 solutions, such as Solana itself, are adequate for achieving efficient, affordable, and secure scaling without the complications often associated with Layer-2 implementations. Yakovenko’s assertion was a direct response to other industry voices questioning the viability of Layer-1 solutions.
“There is no reason to build an L2,” Yakovenko contended, highlighting that Layer-1 can already outperform Layer-2 alternatives in speed, cost, and security.
Yakovenko further elaborated that Layer-1 solutions like Solana can bypass the limitations imposed by slower data availability stacks commonly found in Layer-2 setups. This sentiment resonates with many who argue that the design of Layer-1 networks, when executed efficiently, should negate the necessity for additional layers of complexity.
There is no reason to build an L2.
L1s can be faster, cheaper, and more secure.
They aren’t slowed down by a glacially moving L1 data availability stack, or have to compromise security with complex fraud proofs and upgrade multisigs. https://t.co/Ov3YAfz9U4
— toly
(@aeyakovenko) March 23, 2025
He emphasized that Solana efficiently separates execution and data layers, which enhances its performance in terms of transaction throughput and speed.
Storage Issues
Yakovenko discussed the specifics of data generation on the Solana network, noting that its annual data production stands at roughly 80 terabytes. He argues that this relatively small amount of data is insufficient for establishing businesses on Layer-2, while simultaneously being too substantial for individuals to store easily. The implications of these constraints further challenge the necessity of Layer-2 solutions.
“Solana generates a measly amount of data. Like 80TB per year so far. It’s just not enough data to build a business around, but too much for any individual to easily store,” Yakovenko stated, laying bare the operational difficulties that Layer-1 networks face in scaling.
He encouraged developers not to pursue the creation of Layer-2 cryptocurrencies devoid of value, hinting instead at alternative strategies such as launching tokens without the added complications of a Layer-2 structure.
When questioned about the future of Solana regarding unused storage capacity, Yakovenko suggested that data could potentially be offloaded to decentralized storage solutions, such as Filecoin.
Some Do Not Agree
However, not all in the crypto community share Yakovenko’s perspective. Some investors and developers argue that Layer-2 solutions are essential for scaling blockchains to accommodate millions of users. One commenter asserted, “L1s can’t scale to accommodate 8 billion global users. L2s are needed no matter which chain you see leading the way.”
In response, Yakovenko maintained that Layer-1 can indeed support a significant user base — estimating that 8 billion users generating three transactions per day could easily fit into Solana’s transaction capacity.
Ultimately, Yakovenko’s stance positions Solana as a formidable player in the ongoing discussions surrounding blockchain scalability. As the debate over the necessity and viability of Layer-2 solutions continues, the cryptocurrency space remains dynamic and ever-evolving. Solana’s architectural decisions may very well set a precedent for future developments in blockchain technology.
Featured image from Gemini Imagen, chart from TradingView
