- Fault proofs are coming to Base Mainnet on October 30, marking a major step toward decentralization.
- The new system allows anyone to challenge invalid withdrawals without relying on a centralized entity.
- Changes will affect withdrawals during the upgrade, requiring a new process for re-proving pending transactions.
Base, the Ethereum layer-2 blockchain developed by Coinbase, is preparing for a significant upgrade with the launch of its fault-proof system. Set to go live on October 30, this feature introduces permissionless challenges to invalid withdrawals, removing the dependency on trusted third parties.
This change is considered a vital step toward the network’s decentralization and allows for broader community participation in validating transactions. Fault proofs enable a decentralized approach to monitoring and contesting output proposals, meaning anyone can propose or challenge the state of Base’s network.
The network has collaborated with Optimism to integrate this fault-proof technology, ensuring a smooth and secure transition. As a result, the process of withdrawals from it to Ethereum’s L1 will see a shift toward a more community-driven model, where anyone can submit or challenge output proposals.
What’s Changing for Withdrawals
Introducing fault proofs will significantly impact how withdrawals are managed on Base. For those with pending withdrawals during the upgrade, transactions will need to be re-proven under the new system.
This will require a 7-day challenge period before finalization, although additional delays may occur if a challenge is issued. The DisputeGameFactory contract will replace the existing L2OutputOracle, managing output root statements in this new model.
This change strengthens security and enhances decentralization, allowing the community to play a more active role in maintaining the network’s integrity. The upgrade will ensure that withdrawals, which previously required trust in centralized actors, can now be challenged and verified by anyone on the network.
User Notices Required for Changes in Base Withdrawal Processes
Teams operating bridges on Base Mainnet will need to update their systems to accommodate the new fault-proof mechanism. Notices should be provided to users, ensuring they are aware of the changes in withdrawal processes during the transition.
The upgrade to fault-proof contracts will be conducted in a single transaction, with no action required from node operators. Additionally, bridge.base.org now redirects users to Superbridge, which manages deposits and withdrawals across the network and other chains within the Superchain ecosystem.
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