Everstake is thrilled to announce that we have joined the Monad testnet as a validator. Monad represents a new chapter in Layer-1 blockchain innovation, offering a radically reimagined architecture that addresses some of the most pressing challenges in Web3 infrastructure.
This article will explore what makes Monad special, its architecture, and why it’s gaining attention as a promising next-gen blockchain. You’ll also learn about the current state of the testnet, how to get involved, and what the future may hold for this ambitious project.
What is Monad?
Monad is a high-performance, EVM-compatible Layer 1 blockchain built by a team of engineers with backgrounds at Jump Trading and deep roots in crypto. The project aims to overcome the so-called “blockchain trilemma” — the trade-off between scalability, decentralization, and Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility. Monad was built from the ground up to deliver all three, unlike many existing blockchains that compromise on one of these dimensions.
Here are some of the innovations that make Monad a powerful L1 blockchain:
- Parallel Execution: Monad processes multiple transactions concurrently using Optimistic Concurrency Control, significantly boosting throughput.
- MonadBFT: A custom, streamlined consensus mechanism inspired by HotStuff that enables 1-second block times and single-slot finality.
- Deferred Execution: Decouples transaction execution from consensus, freeing up resources and simplifying validation.
- MonadDb: A custom-built database that efficiently stores blockchain state on SSDs rather than RAM, lowering hardware requirements.
- EVM Compatibility: Full support for Ethereum tooling and smart contracts.
- Low Fees: Transaction costs are consistently below 1 cent.
These features collectively make Monad a compelling option for developers seeking performance, affordability, and Ethereum compatibility in one unified platform.
How Monad Works?
Monad introduces several core innovations that work together to enable its high performance and low resource requirements:
- Optimistic Concurrency Control allows multiple transactions to be processed simultaneously without compromising data integrity.
- MonadBFT reduces the number of communication rounds required for consensus from three to two, enabling 1-second block finality.
- Deferred Execution separates the consensus mechanism from the execution of transactions, allowing for a more modular and scalable design.
- MonadDb improves data storage efficiency by storing blockchain state on SSDs instead of RAM, drastically reducing hardware costs for validators and node operators.
These technologies combine to deliver up to 10,000 transactions per second, extremely low latency, and transaction finality within a single block slot.
Testnet Phases for Users and Validators
Testnet v1 was created for developers and early users to explore Monads’ capabilities, test dApps, and provide feedback. The team offers a user-friendly Monad Faucet, where users can request testnet MON tokens to explore its features.
Testnet v2 is an experimental environment explicitly focused on validators. This phase aims to enhance validator readiness for mainnet. A total of 100–150 participants will be selected, and the testnet is expected to run for approximately 10 weeks starting in late May.
Mainnet Plans and Ecosystem Outlook
Although Monad is still in its testnet phase, the team has already begun laying the groundwork for its mainnet launch. One notable development is the decision by Circle, the issuer of USDC, to support Monad from day one of mainnet, which suggests a growing interest in building a robust ecosystem around Monad.
With the technical foundation already in place and increasing engagement from developers, users, and infrastructure providers like Everstake, the outlook for Monad’s mainnet is highly promising.
Conclusion
Monad is shaping up to be one of the most exciting L1 projects in the blockchain space. Monad offers a truly next-generation platform for developers and users alike by solving the trade-offs that have historically limited blockchain scalability.
As an early validator, Everstake is committed to supporting the growth and security of Monad from its earliest phases. We invite you to explore the testnet, try out the technology, and join us in building the future of scalable, decentralized, and EVM-compatible blockchain infrastructure.
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