In the field of blockchain, there has always been a famous theory of the impossible triangle, which states that it is difficult for a chain to simultaneously balance performance (scalability), security, and decentralization. To pursue high performance, a certain level of decentralization is often sacrificed; while to ensure extreme security and decentralization, performance may become a shortcoming. However, modular blockchains represented by Caldera are proposing new solutions to this problem through a divide-and-conquer approach.
The core idea of Caldera is not to try to solve all problems at one level but to break down tasks.
First, at the performance level, Caldera achieves this by launching a dedicated Rollup chain for each application. This means that applications no longer need to compete for block space with other DApps and can exclusively enjoy the resources of the entire chain, thereby achieving extremely high TPS (transactions per second) and low latency. It's like switching from a crowded bus lane to a private racetrack without speed limits.
Second, at the security level, Caldera does not start from scratch. The final transaction validity of all Rollup chains is settled on the Ethereum mainnet. It cleverly leverages the security guarantees of Ethereum, which is currently the most powerful and decentralized consensus network. No matter how fast the upper-layer Rollup chains operate, the final ownership and security of their assets are backed by Ethereum. This is a very clever strategy of standing on the shoulders of giants.
Finally, at the decentralization level, Caldera's model also brings new possibilities. It avoids the centralization risk of a single project completely controlling its own Rollup chain through mechanisms like shared sequencer networks. Meanwhile, tasks such as Data Availability (DA) are entrusted to specialized decentralized networks like Celestia or EigenDA, further dispersing power.
Through this modular architecture where everyone plays their role, Caldera does not break the impossible triangle but cleverly circumvents it through a more three-dimensional, multi-layered structure. It shows us that performance, security, and decentralization are not merely a zero-sum game of life and death, but can achieve a dynamic and higher-dimensional balance through ingenious architectural design.
