# Layer 1 vs. Layer 2

**Published by:** [3C](https://paragraph.com/@3c/)
**Published on:** 2022-04-10
**URL:** https://paragraph.com/@3c/layer-1-vs-layer-2

## Content

When it comes to improvements, not everything is solvable on layer 1. Due to technological constraints, certain changes are difficult or almost impossible to do on the main blockchain network. Ethereum, for example, is upgrading to Proof of Stake (PoS), but this process has taken years to develop. Some use-cases simply cannot work with layer 1 due to scalability issues. A blockchain game could not realistically use the Bitcoin network due to the lengthy transaction times. However, the game may still want to use layer 1's security and decentralization. The best option is to build on top of the network with a layer-2 solution.Lightning NetworkLayer-2 solutions build on layer 1 and rely on it to finalize its transactions. One famous example is the Lightning Network. The Bitcoin network under heavy traffic can take hours to process transactions. The Lightning Network lets users make speedy payments with their Bitcoin off the main chain, and the final balance is reported back to the main chain later. This essentially bundles everyone's transactions into one final record, saving time and resources.

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