Somnia Network is a high-performance Layer 1 blockchain designed for metaverse applications. With 400,000 TPS, low fees, and EVM compatibility, it supports gaming.
By Eliza Crichton-Stuart
Updated March 31st 2025
Updated March 31st 2025
Somnia Network is a blockchain infrastructure designed to address the scalability challenges that have hindered the growth of metaverse applications and immersive gaming experiences. Traditional blockchains have struggled with slow transaction speeds, high fees, and limited interoperability, creating barriers for large-scale adoption. Somnia offers a solution by providing a high-performance Layer 1 network capable of supporting complex virtual experiences with efficiency and speed.
Somnia Network: Scalable Blockchain Solution for Web3
Somnia Network was launched in 2024 by the Virtual Society Foundation (VSF), an independent organization initiated by Improbable, a British technology company known for its work in distributed systems and large-scale simulations. The network was developed to support the creation of a unified virtual society, allowing millions of users to engage in seamless digital experiences. The project is led by founder Paul Thomas, with strategic support from Improbable’s leadership, including CEO Herman Narula and COO Peter Lipka. Leveraging Improbable’s expertise, Somnia aims to overcome the limitations of existing blockchain networks and create an environment where metaverse applications can thrive.
Somnia Network: Scalable Blockchain Solution for Web3
Somnia Network serves multiple purposes within the blockchain and metaverse ecosystems. One of its primary goals is to provide a high-performance infrastructure for metaverse applications, allowing developers to build and connect virtual worlds without the constraints of low transaction speeds or high fees. The network is also designed to support a decentralized creator economy, where users can create, share, and monetize digital assets seamlessly across various applications. Additionally, Somnia facilitates blockchain interoperability through its omnichain protocols, enabling efficient asset transfers and data sharing between different blockchain networks.
Somnia Network achieves its high performance and scalability through several technological innovations. It utilizes MultiStream Consensus, a novel mechanism that separates data production from the consensus process, allowing validators to independently produce blocks and improve overall efficiency. The network also incorporates Compiled Bytecode, which translates Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) bytecode into optimized native code, significantly enhancing execution speeds. Another key component is ICEdb, a custom-built database that ensures ultra-fast read and write times, contributing to the network’s ability to process transactions at a rate of 400,000 per second with sub-second finality.
Somnia Network: Scalable Blockchain Solution for Web3
Somnia Network provides several advantages for developers and users within the blockchain space. Its ability to process a high volume of transactions with minimal delay makes it one of the fastest blockchain networks available. The network’s efficiency results in low transaction fees, maintaining affordability even during periods of high activity. With full EVM compatibility, Somnia allows developers to migrate existing Ethereum-based applications without requiring extensive modifications. Furthermore, its omnichain protocols enhance interoperability, enabling seamless movement of assets and data across different blockchain ecosystems.
Somnia Network supports various applications, particularly those requiring high-speed and low-cost transactions. It enables immersive metaverse experiences by powering large-scale virtual worlds capable of hosting thousands of simultaneous users. The network’s performance also makes it an ideal platform for on-chain gaming, supporting real-time interactions and complex game mechanics. Decentralized social media platforms can leverage Somnia to provide users with greater control over their digital identities and data. Additionally, the network’s speed and efficiency make it well-suited for decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, including high-frequency trading and advanced financial instruments.
Source: ThirdWeb
updated:
March 31st 2025
posted:
March 30th 2025