Excuse me, could you clarify for me if 
Ethereum is indeed considered a layer 2 solution in the blockchain ecosystem? I've heard conflicting opinions on this matter, and I'm curious to understand your perspective. As I understand, layer 2 solutions are often referred to as technologies that build on top of existing blockchain networks to enhance their scalability, throughput, and reduce transaction fees. So, does Ethereum, as a platform itself, qualify as a layer 2, or are we referring to specific solutions or protocols that operate on top of Ethereum's layer 1?
            
            
            
            
            
            
           
          
          
            5 answers
            
            
  
    
    Maria
    Sat Sep 14 2024
   
  
    On a daily basis, the Ethereum mainnet processes an impressive volume of over 1 million transactions. This figure underscores its widespread adoption and the increasing reliance of users on the network for various financial activities.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    Sebastiano
    Sat Sep 14 2024
   
  
    However, the current capacity of the 
Ethereum mainnet falls short of the immense demand placed upon it. This disparity creates a bottleneck, leading to a congestion issue that affects the overall performance of the network.
  
 
  
 
            
            
  
    
    SakuraSpiritual
    Sat Sep 14 2024
   
  
    As the network becomes increasingly congested, it experiences delays in processing transactions. This, in turn, has a ripple effect on the cost of performing transactions on the Ethereum mainnet.
  
  
 
            
            
  
    
    PulseWind
    Sat Sep 14 2024
   
  
    The congestion pushes up the gas prices to exorbitant levels, making it more expensive for users to interact with the network. This phenomenon highlights the urgent need for scaling solutions to address the capacity constraints of the 
Ethereum mainnet.
  
 
  
 
            
            
  
    
    PulseRider
    Sat Sep 14 2024
   
  
    The 
Ethereum mainnet, widely recognized as 'layer 1,' is a formidable player in the cryptocurrency landscape. Despite its robust infrastructure, it confronts a significant challenge in meeting the soaring demand for transactions.