Dual-Level Finality: Speed and Security Your Way
Bitlayer’s protocol introduces a dual-level finality system, allowing users and applications to choose between lightning-fast execution and the uncompromising security of the Bitcoin blockchain.
For a smooth, near-instant experience, transactions reach Soft Finality in under one second once confirmed by Bitlayer’s Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus. This level is perfect for everyday interactions, secured by the economic stake of the validator set.
For maximum protection, transactions can attain Hard Finality, achieved when the L2 state containing the transaction is settled and finalized on the Bitcoin blockchain. Due to the optimistic rollup’s challenge period, this process takes roughly seven days. Hard Finality offers security on par with Bitcoin itself, requiring only a single honest participant to detect and challenge fraudulent activity.
In the rare case that a valid L1 challenge exposes a discrepancy, the protocol will pause network activity. This safeguard protects user assets, with recovery directed by the social consensus of the network’s stakeholders.
