Ethereum to deploy Fusaka hard fork by end of 2025

Fusaka hard fork in Ethereum development roadmap

The Fusaka hard fork is considered the next major milestone after the Pectra upgrade, which is expected to be completed in May 2025. While the previous Dencun upgrade focused on data scalability and reducing layer-2 transaction fees through proto-danksharding, Fusaka shifts its focus to refining Ethereum's core operations. The main goals are to improve performance, ensure stability, and reduce risks for the entire ecosystem.

Fusaka plans to continue optimizing scalability for layer-2 solutions while improving the performance of the EVM to maintain Ethereum's position against competition from other blockchains such as Solana or BNB Chain. However, the removal of EOF - an ambitious set of improvement proposals - has sparked much debate about how Ethereum balances innovation and security.

EOF: Big ambitions but full of risks

EOF, or EVM Object Format, is a set of proposed improvements that restructure the way the EVM processes and stores smart contracts. With changes such as a new bytecode format, the removal of dynamic jumps, and tighter code testing at the outset, EOF promises to increase the efficiency and security of the EVM. These improvements are expected to help Ethereum process smart contracts faster, reduce errors, and create a foundation for more complex decentralized applications (dApps).

However, EOF also faced mixed reviews. Many developers, including veteran developers, argued that EOF was too complex and could increase security risks. Changing a large number of opcodes and adding new semantics could open up attack vectors, especially given that Ethereum is a prime target for hackers. Furthermore, implementing EOF required a lot of time and resources, which could slow down Fusaka’s progress and affect the overall development roadmap.

The Ethereum community has also shown strong opposition. A recent poll showed that the majority of participants, especially those with large ETH holdings, are not in favor of the EOF. This shows the community's caution towards revolutionary but potentially risky changes.

Decision to remove EOF

The Ethereum Foundation's decision to remove EOF from Fusaka is a sign of a change in approach. In the past, the Ethereum Foundation has been criticized for its lack of transparency and failure to listen to community input. However, this move shows that they are willing to adjust their plans based on feedback from developers and users.

The decision also reflects Ethereum’s top priority: ensuring the stability and security of its network. As the largest blockchain platform for decentralized applications, any changes that put the ecosystem at risk could have serious consequences, from loss of user trust to financial loss. By shelving the EOF, Ethereum focuses on improvements that are easier to implement, allowing Fusaka to stay on schedule and deliver real value to users.

Impact on the Ethereum Ecosystem

The decision to remove EOF and implement Fusaka will have significant impacts on the Ethereum ecosystem, both technically and commercially.

• Technically: Focusing on layer-2 optimization and EVM improvements without EOF could help Ethereum maintain its advantage in the short term. Layer-2 solutions like Arbitrum or Optimism will continue to benefit from lower transaction costs and higher performance. However, delaying EVM improvements could leave Ethereum lagging behind its competitors in the race to upgrade its technology. In the future, Ethereum may need to reconsider EOF or similar solutions to meet the increasingly complex needs of dApps and DeFi.

• Market-wise: This decision could bolster community confidence in the Ethereum Foundation, especially after past governance controversies. However, removing the EOF also dampens expectations of a technological leap, which could impact investor sentiment. ETH prices remain stable for now, but other factors such as the Pectra upgrade and the potential approval of an ETH staking ETF by the end of 2025 will play a larger role in shaping price trends.

• Competing with other blockchains: While Ethereum prioritizes stability, competitors like Solana and Cardano are pushing to improve their technology and attract developers. If Fusaka doesn’t deliver enough disruptive changes, Ethereum could face greater pressure to retain users and projects.

Conclude

The Fusaka hard fork marks a cautious but necessary step for Ethereum in its quest to maintain its leadership position. The decision to remove EOF, while disappointing for those hoping for a more robust EVM, shows the maturity of the Ethereum Foundation’s governance. By prioritizing security and stability, Ethereum is strengthening its foundation to continue to thrive in a volatile market.

However, Fusaka also poses a challenge for Ethereum in balancing innovation and preserving core values. Can the network continue to lead without revolutionary changes like EOF? The answer will depend on how Ethereum leverages Fusaka and subsequent upgrades to meet the needs of the community and the market. With a clear roadmap and growing consensus, Ethereum still has the opportunity to shape the future of blockchain, but the road ahead is certainly not easy.