TLDR

  • The Base network will transition from Optimism to a unified stack operated by Base itself.
  • Node operators are required to switch to the Base client to remain compatible with forks.
  • The Base V1 hardfork will integrate Fusaka and replace optimistic proofs with TEE/ZK proofs specific to Base.
  • Base continues to be a Stage 1 Ethereum rollup adhering to Buterin’s L2 model.

Base, a Coinbase-backed entity and one of the largest Ethereum Layer 2 networks, is moving away from Optimism. The network plans to adopt a unified software stack entirely managed by Base, consolidating components previously overseen by external teams.

This change is intended to simplify development, reduce maintenance, and improve network efficiency. Node operators will need to switch to the new Base client to stay in line with upcoming hardforks and protocol upgrades.

Base Network to End Dependence on Optimism

Coinbase-incubated Base, an Ethereum Layer 2 network, will break away from Optimism. The network will adopt a unified software stack fully managed by Base.

This decision affects Base’s current setup within the OP Stack Superchain ecosystem. Base previously relied on multiple external contributors, including Optimism, Flashbots, and Paradigm.

A blog post from Base noted, “Currently, the code running various components of Base is owned by multiple teams and spread across multiple repositories.” The post added that this setup created maintenance challenges, which the unified stack aims to mitigate.

Introduction of the Unified Base Stack

The new Base stack, referred to as base/base, will consolidate Base’s components under a single repository. This includes the sequencer and other protocol functions, optimized specifically for Base’s use cases.

Base that the protocol will remain open and public. “Any team can build, run, and maintain an independent client that follows the published specs,” the blog stated. This move does not hinder alternative implementations or compatibility with future hard forks.

Base will continue to follow the OP Stack specification in the short term. However, node operators must migrate to the new Base client to stay compatible with upcoming upgrades.

Upcoming Hardforks and Technical Updates

The first update, Base V1, will support Fusaka and replace optimistic proofs with Base-specific TEE/ZK proofs. Node operators will need to run releases from base/base instead of Optimism’s releases.

Two additional hardforks are planned to further reduce Base’s dependence on .
The Base V3 upgrade is scheduled around the upcoming Glamsterdam Ethereum update.

These updates are designed to simplify Base’s codebase while maintaining network security.
 An additional independent signer will be added to the Base Security Council as part of these changes.

Base’s Role in the OP Stack Ecosystem

Base remains the largest network in the OP Stack Superchain. The network previously considered launching a native token and participating in token buybacks.

The move toward a unified stack indicates Base’s effort to centralize development while keeping the protocol open. Despite parting ways with Optimism, Base will continue to follow Stage 1 rollup principles defined by Vitalik Buterin.