Rollups are a scaling technology that executes transactions off the main blockchain (e.g., Ethereum), and then 'rolls up' or 'packs' them into a single block and sends it back to the main network. This significantly reduces the amount of data stored on the main blockchain, which, in turn, increases its throughput and lowers fees.
There are two main types of rollups:
Optimistic Rollups: They assume that all transactions are valid until proven otherwise. This allows for high speed but requires a waiting period for transaction confirmation (usually from 7 days) to allow anyone to submit proof of fraud.
ZK Rollups (Zero-Knowledge Rollups): They use cryptographic proofs (Zero-Knowledge Proofs) for instant validation of all transactions. This provides fast final confirmation but is more complex from a technological standpoint.
Caldera: Specialized rollups as a service (Rollups as a Service)
Caldera entered the market with a revolutionary proposition—providing customizable rollup stacks, allowing any project to launch its own specialized blockchain. Instead of competing for block space on Ethereum or Solana, a project can have its own chain optimized for its specific needs.
Caldera uses popular and proven technology stacks, including:
OP Stack (Optimism): Provides the ability to create a custom Optimistic Rollup that is part of the broader OP network (Optimism Collective). This ensures compatibility and interaction with other chains in this ecosystem.
Arbitrum Orbit: Allows the creation of specialized chains that utilize Arbitrum technology, known for its efficiency and low fees.
Key benefits for developers and projects:
Control and flexibility: Developers gain complete control over their chain—from choosing the commission model to adjusting block speeds. This allows for the creation of a blockchain perfectly adapted, for example, for games (where extremely fast transactions are needed) or for DeFi platforms (where security is critical).
Cost reduction: Using a dedicated rollup significantly lowers gas costs for users, as the project no longer competes for space in Ethereum blocks.
Ease of launch: Caldera transforms the complex process of launching a blockchain into a simple service. Instead of spending months on development, a project can launch its rollup in just minutes.
Ecosystem and future
Caldera is part of a larger trend known as 'modular blockchain.' This concept suggests that blockchain systems will consist of different, specialized layers: one for executing transactions, another for ensuring security, and a third for data availability. Caldera allows for the creation of just such a layer—specialized and optimized for execution.
In the long term, this could lead to the emergence of numerous interconnected yet specialized chains, each serving its niche. Caldera is a key player in this transformation, providing tools to create such a decentralized, efficient, and flexible ecosystem.
