# Layer2 Protocol

By [paperkey.eth](https://paragraph.com/@paperkey) · 2023-03-16

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Layer 2 refers to a secondary framework or protocol that is built on top of an existing blockchain system. The main goal of these protocols is to solve the transaction speed and scaling difficulties that are being faced by the major cryptocurrency networks.

In a broader sense, layer 2 protocols create a secondary framework, where blockchain transactions and processes can take place independently of the layer 1 (main chain). For this reason, these techniques may also be referred to as “off-chain” scaling solutions.

In other words, a great portion of the work that would be performed by the main chain can be moved to the second layer. So while the main chain (layer 1) provides security, the second layer offers high throughput, being able to perform hundreds, or even thousands, of transactions per second.

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*Originally published on [paperkey.eth](https://paragraph.com/@paperkey/layer2-protocol)*