Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin is proposing a revolutionary shift that could completely transform how Ethereum nodes operate. Instead of requiring over 1.3 TB of data storage, the new architecture would allow ordinary users to run nodes on home computers or even smartphones.

📦 End of Full Blockchain Storage?

Buterin’s idea is simple: nodes would store only the data they actually need, while older or unused data could be retrieved from the network on demand. This dramatically reduces hardware and storage requirements.

🔹 Instead of managing 1.3 TB, users would work with a much smaller dataset

🔹 Historical data older than 36 days would be distributed across multiple nodes

🔹 Local nodes would work like on-demand libraries, fetching data as needed

According to Ryan Yoon of Tiger Research, it’s like a library system: “You don’t need every book in your branch if you can request them from others.”

🌐 Local Access, Global Impact

This lightweight model aligns with Ethereum’s long-term goal — allowing full node validation on consumer hardware. The aim is to encourage broader participation and enhance network decentralization.

Buterin has previously warned that relying on a few big infrastructure providers could enable censorship:

“If we centralize node operation, we risk user deplatforming.”

⚠️ Challenges Remain

Michael Cameron of Vanilla Finance points out that the proposal comes with technical hurdles:

🔸 A strong mechanism is needed to select and verify relevant data

🔸 The network must ensure data availability even if some nodes go offline

🔸 The model only works if enough geographically distributed nodes stay active

Still, Cameron believes the idea is worth pursuing:

“This proposal is a breath of fresh air and could truly democratize Ethereum node operation.”

🧩 Part of the Pectra Upgrade Vision

The lightweight node design is tied to Ethereum’s broader Pectra upgrade — expected to be the network’s “most ambitious” update. Together, they could make Ethereum even more inclusive, resilient, and decentralized.

Buterin’s proposal is bold, complex, and perhaps still far off — but if successful, it could redefine the game. Ethereum may finally come closer to its ideal: a decentralized network truly run by everyone.



#VitalikButerin , #Ethereum , #ETH , #CryptoNewss , #crypto

Stay one step ahead – follow our profile and stay informed about everything important in the world of cryptocurrencies!

Notice:

,,The information and views presented in this article are intended solely for educational purposes and should not be taken as investment advice in any situation. The content of these pages should not be regarded as financial, investment, or any other form of advice. We caution that investing in cryptocurrencies can be risky and may lead to financial losses.“