The Beam Network is set to become a Layer 1 blockchain as a result of the Avalanche Community Proposal ACP-77 and the upcoming Etna upgrade. This change enables Beam to operate independently while continuing to leverage Avalanche’s technical infrastructure. The shift is a significant development for Beam and its broader ecosystem, especially as the network deepens its focus on blockchain gaming.

Beam Network Becomes a Layer 1 Blockchain

The Etna Upgrade

The Etna upgrade marks a turning point for Avalanche Subnets, granting them the ability to function as independent Layer 1 blockchains. This development removes prior constraints, such as the high cost of validator nodes, allowing networks to operate more efficiently and with greater flexibility. For the Beam Network, this upgrade introduces key benefits, including the ability to customize its infrastructure and streamline interoperability with other blockchains.

As a Layer 1 network, Beam gains the freedom to adjust its parameters, cryptography, and transaction formats to better serve its focus on gaming. Enhanced interoperability also allows for more direct communication with other Layer 1 blockchains, including game-specific networks. Moreover, the financial requirements for maintaining a Layer 1 blockchain are significantly reduced, making it easier for developers to engage with the platform.

The Etna Upgrade 

The Horizon Upgrade and Beam Nodes

Beam’s transition to Layer 1 is further enabled by the Horizon upgrade, which introduces a permissionless proof-of-stake (PoS) consensus mechanism. This upgrade makes it possible for community members to participate in securing the network by running or delegating to Beam Nodes.

This decentralized model of validation is designed to support the long-term growth of the network. Validators will not only help maintain the network’s security but will also receive rewards for their participation. Rewards include transaction validation incentives in the form of $BEAM tokens, as well as protocol fees generated from key services like BeamSwap, Beam Bridge, and Sphere Marketplace. Additional grants from Beam’s treasury and ecosystem partners further enhance the incentives for validators.

Beam Nodes

A Focus on Decentralization and Accessibility

The Horizon upgrade reflects Beam’s broader goal of decentralization and accessibility. By reducing the costs and technical requirements associated with running validator nodes, the upgrade encourages greater community involvement in the network. At the same time, Beam’s approach to validation connects various elements of its ecosystem, ensuring a cohesive experience for participants.

Validators will play a central role in supporting the network, benefiting from a system that ties rewards to key Beam protocols and incentivizes active participation. These incentives highlight Beam’s commitment to creating a decentralized ecosystem that is accessible to developers and community members alike.

Beam Rewards

A Milestone for the Beam Ecosystem

The transition to a Layer 1 blockchain is a significant moment for the Beam Network. It positions the network to move beyond its role as gaming infrastructure and evolve into a collaborative platform for developers, gamers, and validators. The changes introduced by the Etna and Horizon upgrades aim to strengthen the network’s foundation while fostering growth within its ecosystem. Development teams are already preparing for this transition, ensuring that Beam is ready to fully implement these upgrades once they are available.

As the Beam Network embarks on this new phase, it stands to gain increased flexibility, efficiency, and community involvement, solidifying its role in the blockchain gaming sector. For more information about the Beam Network and its developments, visit the official website or explore resources such as the Beam documentation and governance forum. Disclaimer: This content is for informational purposes only and does not constitute legal, financial, or investment advice.