- Internet Computer is rolling out some highly anticipated upgrades that will enhance the network’s speed, usability, and decentralization.
- These improvements will help propel Internet Computer closer to its ambitious vision of transforming software development and online services.
One of the most exciting sets of upgrades will focus on massively scaling up the Internet Computer network. Currently, limits exist on how many nodes can participate in subnet block production and consensus. However, a new subnet architecture is being designed that will completely remove these restrictions. This new elastic subnet design lays the groundwork for virtually unlimited scalability.
Massive Scalability on the Horizon
Internet Computer will be able to accommodate millions of nodes as adoption spreads and demand increases. Processing power and storage capacity can scale up smoothly to meet the rising demand. This hyper-scalability unlocks the full potential of blockchain technology.
Additionally, smaller and variable subnet sizes will enhance efficiency and throughput. Consensus and block production can occur faster with fewer nodes per subnet. Operations that once took minutes may soon take seconds. This improved performance will make applications more responsive. The massive scalability unlocked by flexible subnets removes a major bottleneck. Internet Computer will have the raw capacity to become the world’s primary computing platform and can replace legacy IT infrastructure. Its public network can expand organically without sacrificing decentralization. Overall, this new architecture sets the stage for exponential on-chain growth.
Streamlined dApp Development Incoming
On top of scaling improvements, Internet Computer has some exciting upgrades aimed at streamlining decentralized application (dApp) development. More user-friendly development tools will help onboard the next generation of builders and creators. For example, canister smart contracts on Internet computers will soon gain the ability to generate certified responses to queries.
This query certification feature adds cryptographic proof that responses originate from the specific canister’s logic. Certified queries simplify the complexity of dApp programming. Use cases like verifying identities, validating account balances, preventing double-spending of tokens, and more, become much easier. Developers can rely on tamper-proof querying to power core application logic.
Decentralization Enhancements Inbound
Finally, Internet Computer has upgrades in store aimed at further decentralizing network governance. One of the core principles of blockchain technology is minimizing reliance on centralized entities through distributed consensus.
To start, node providers on Internet computers will soon gain voting rights on network fee rates. This reduces the influence of the Internet Computer Association Foundation over day-to-day operations. Power is shifted into the hands of infrastructure providers running subnet blockchains.
Summary
In summary, Internet Computer’s upcoming upgrades to scaling, usability, and decentralization will help unleash its disruptive potential. As Internet Computer continues pushing the blockchain frontier, these impactful changes signal an exciting future. With greater capacity, smoother development, and enhanced decentralization, Internet Computer is ready to transform the Internet as we know it.
Dr. Naveen Singh is an entrepreneur with achievements in sports, academics, healthcare, innovation, blockchain technology, telecommunications, and philanthropy. He is the Co-Founder and Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Inery, the first layer-1 blockchain programmed for database management. With Inery, he aligns with his vision of a new paradigm for data to empower web3 and complete decentralization.