Solana Co-Founder Questions Need for Layer-2 Solutions

The Most Important Points at a Glance
Solana co-founder Anatoly Yakovenko questions the necessity of Layer-2 (L2) solutions. He argues that Layer-1 (L1) blockchains like Solana can achieve higher speed, lower costs, and better security without additional scaling layers. His statements spark a debate about the future of blockchain scaling, particularly in comparison to Ethereum.
Why Yakovenko Prefers L1 Over L2
Yakovenko expressed his skepticism about L2 solutions on X (formerly Twitter). He claims that L1 blockchains can operate faster, cheaper, and more securely because they are not constrained by slow data availability or complex security mechanisms like fraud proofs.
He emphasizes that Solana generates only about 80 terabytes of data per year—a volume he considers insignificant. This challenges the argument that L1 blockchains suffer from storage limitations.
Criticism of Ethereum and Its L2 Solutions
Yakovenko criticizes Ethereum’s scaling strategy. In his view, L2 networks weaken the Ethereum blockchain instead of supporting it. They divert high-priority transactions away from Ethereum, reducing the network’s revenue. In fact, Ethereum’s transaction fees have dropped by 95% since their peak in 2021.
His argument raises doubts about the long-term effectiveness of L2 solutions for Ethereum.
Solana vs. Ethereum
Solana has emerged as a serious competitor to Ethereum in recent months. In several key metrics—including decentralized exchange (DEX) trading volume, user activity, and fee revenue—Solana has demonstrated strong growth.
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According to crypto analytics firm Delphi Digital, this trend could continue. There is a possibility that Solana could surpass Ethereum as the leading L1 blockchain in the future.
Market Development
As the debate over blockchain scaling continues, Solana is experiencing price gains. The SOL token rose by 7.25% to $141.95. Ethereum also saw an increase, reaching $2,094.76 with a 4.06% rise.
Whether Yakovenko’s vision of a future without L2 solutions will become reality remains to be seen. However, his statements are sparking discussions within the crypto community.
Our Assessment
Yakovenko’s criticism of L2 solutions is not new, but his arguments are well-founded. Solana relies on a high-performance L1 architecture designed to enable scalability without additional layers. However, it remains to be seen whether this model is viable in the long term.
Ethereum, on the other hand, follows a different approach with L2 solutions, focusing on modularity. Both strategies have their pros and cons. In the long run, it will become clear which model prevails—or whether a combination of both approaches will define the future of blockchain scaling.