Layer 1
Explore Layer 1 blockchains: secure, decentralized, and scalable foundations for the crypto ecosystem.
$NEAR · 7 days on top this week
Up 84 places this week, $CELL is gaining ground
$VANA +26 places this week
$VANA climbed 26 places this week
A standout this week: $NEAR reached a gem score of 80
63 tokens rose and 49 fell this week
$ALPH +76 places this month
Frequently asked questions
How has Layer 1 performed recently?
The Layer 1 category has seen notable activity over both 7-day and 30-day windows. Over the past 7 days, 63 tokens were up compared to 49 down. CELL was the top climber, with a 106.1% score increase, while ION saw the largest score decrease at -12.2%. NEAR achieved the highest score of 80.4875 and also led with a 7-day streak. DOT exited the top K, and NEAR (Ethereum network) entered. Looking at the 30-day window, 90 tokens were up against 22 down. Alephium (AlphBridge) surged as the top climber with a 157.4% score increase, while Xcellar was the largest faller, down -23.8%. NEAR (BSC network) continued to hold the highest score of 80.4875 and extended its streak to 8 days. Several tokens entered the top K, including NEAR (BSC network), Avalanche, and NEAR (Ethereum network), while Wrapped Polygon Ecosystem Token, Realio Network, and Proton exited.
What defines a Layer 1 blockchain?
A Layer 1 blockchain is a base network that processes and finalizes transactions on its own independent chain. It is the fundamental infrastructure upon which decentralized applications and other layers are built.
What are the core characteristics of Layer 1 blockchains?
Layer 1 blockchains are typically characterized by their ability to achieve decentralization, security, and scalability. They implement their own consensus mechanisms, such as Proof-of-Work or Proof-of-Stake, to validate transactions and secure the network.
Why are Layer 1 blockchains important for the cryptocurrency ecosystem?
Layer 1 blockchains are crucial because they provide the foundational security and infrastructure for the entire ecosystem. They enable the creation and execution of smart contracts, host various decentralized applications, and support the issuance of other tokens.
What challenges do Layer 1 blockchains face?
Layer 1 blockchains often grapple with the 'blockchain trilemma,' a challenge in simultaneously optimizing decentralization, security, and scalability. Enhancing one aspect can sometimes lead to trade-offs in the others, leading to ongoing development and innovation to improve performance.