Blockchain networks form the backbone of the crypto world. Layer 1 blockchains are the base networks (like Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, etc.) upon which everything else is built. They handle transactions and security directly on their own chain. In this article, we delve into major Layer 1s, how they achieve consensus, and how they address the big challenges of scalability and security. We’ll also touch on key upcoming events (2024–2025) that highlight their development, and why trading these assets with options can be advantageous for savvy investors.
What Are Layer 1 Blockchains?
A Layer 1 blockchain is an independent network that validates and records transactions on its own ledger. Bitcoin, Ethereum, Solana, Avalanche, Cardano — these are all Layer 1’s. They are akin to operating systems in crypto, whereas tokens/projects built on them are like applications. Key properties of Layer 1s include their consensus mechanism (how they agree on new blocks), throughput (transactions per second), security model, and decentralization.
- Consensus Mechanisms: This is the method by which nodes agree on the state of the ledger. Bitcoin introduced Proof of Work (PoW) — miners compete by solving puzzles, using energy but making it extremely hard to attack the network. Newer chains like ETH (after 2022’s Merge) use Proof of Stake (PoS) — validators stake tokens and are randomly chosen to create blocks, which is far more energy-efficient. Others have variants: Solana uses PoS combined with a unique Proof of History (PoH) timing mechanism to boost speed. Different consensus mechanisms impact security and performance. PoW is time-tested for security (BTC has never been hacked at the chain level) but is relatively slow. PoS allows faster block times and lower energy use, but some argue it’s less battle-hardened than PoW. There are also hybrid and novel models (e.g. Algorand’s Pure PoS, Avalanche’s consensus using repeated sub-sampled voting, etc.), each with trade-offs.
- Scalability Approaches: Scaling is the big challenge. Bitcoin prioritizes security over speed, keeping block sizes small. It relies on second-layer solutions (like Lightning Network) for faster transactions. Ethereum currently processes ~15–30 TPS, and is implementing sharding in 2025 to massively increase capacity. A 2024 upgrade (codenamed Cancun, including EIP-4844 proto-danksharding) is expected to introduce data blobs for rollups, paving the way for full sharding. Solana takes a different route — it aimed to scale on-chain with optimizations, achieving thousands of TPS in ideal conditions. However, pushing limits led to a few network outages in 2022–2023. In response, Solana is bringing in Firedancer, a second independent validator client (by Jump Crypto) expected by end of 2024, which should improve resilience and throughput. Meanwhile, Cardano uses a layered design and is steadily increasing block sizes and script performance, albeit cautiously. The Blockchain Trilemma says you can’t max out decentralization, security, and scalability at once — Layer 1s each try to find a sweet spot or innovate around this (for example, Ethereum’s rollup-centric roadmap pushes scalability to Layer 2 while base layer remains secure and decentralized).
- Security and Decentralization: Security comes from a combination of the consensus mechanism and network decentralization. Bitcoin is often dubbed ultra-secure — an attacker would need >51% of the mining power, which is practically impossible given the sheer scale of the network’s hashpower. Ethereum’s switch to PoS has thousands of validators staking ETH globally, making a coordinated attack very difficult (and economically punitive due to slashing). Some newer chains trade some decentralization for speed — e.g., Solana has fewer validators (hundreds, requiring high-performance hardware), which raises debate about centralization. Algorand or BSC also faced questions on how distributed their validators really are. Generally, the more nodes and the more distributed the token holdings, the more decentralized (hence resilient) a chain is. Security also involves development: mature chains undergo more scrutiny. For instance, Ethereum’s code and cryptography have been battle-tested for years, whereas a newer Layer 1 might still be ironing out bugs.
Why Consider Options for Layer 1 Assets?
Layer 1 cryptocurrencies often make up a large portion of crypto portfolios. They’re the “blue chips” of crypto. However, being heavily invested in a single chain’s token (be it BTC, ETH, or others) exposes one to significant price swings. This is where options trading can be a boon:
- Hedging: Suppose you hold a lot of ETH long-term for staking rewards. If a big upgrade is approaching and you’re worried about short-term price turbulence, you could buy put options on ETH. If ETH’s price drops due to a failed upgrade or delay, the put option can offset losses by giving you the right to sell ETH at a preset price (the strike). This kind of protective hedge is like an insurance policy for your crypto holdings. Platforms like PowerTrade offer options on major Layer 1s, allowing investors to safeguard their gains or principal around major events.
- Leveraging Events (With Limited Risk): Conversely, if you’re optimistic about an event (say, you believe the Bitcoin halving will drive prices up in 2025), you might consider call options. Buying a call gives you exposure to upside beyond the strike price, and your downside is limited to the premium paid. This is often more risk-manageable than using margin or futures, where adverse moves can liquidate positions. For instance, rather than buying SOL on margin before Firedancer’s release, a trader could buy SOL call options — if SOL moons, they profit; if SOL stagnates or falls, they only lose the option premium.
- Volatility Trading: Options also let you trade volatility itself. Uncertain periods (upgrades, conferences, regulatory decisions) often lead to higher implied volatility in options. Traders can use strategies like straddles (buying a call and put simultaneously) to bet on big moves in either direction — useful when you expect something big to happen but aren’t sure which way. For example, a straddle on Ethereum during a major upgrade might pay off if ETH swings wildly up or down. If nothing much happens (low volatility), the options could expire worthless — such is the trade-off.
In conclusion, Layer 1 blockchains are the bedrock of the crypto ecosystem, each striving to balance the trilemma of decentralization, security, and scalability in different ways. The next couple of years will be pivotal, with major technical milestones on the horizon. Whether you are a long-term believer or a short-term trader in these protocols, understanding their fundamentals and the tools available (like options on PowerTrade for hedging or speculation) can empower you to make the most of these opportunities while managing risk. As always, thorough research and a clear plan are key when navigating the ever-evolving landscape of blockchain networks.
Layer 1 Blockchains Explained was originally published in The Capital on Medium, where people are continuing the conversation by highlighting and responding to this story.