Bitcoin.com
Download

Blockchain Layers Explained: L0, L1, L2, and L3

Blockchain technology, the foundation of cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum, is comprised of different layers, each with a specific purpose. This article explores these layers, from Layer 0 (L0) to Layer 3 (L3), explaining their roles and how they interact.
Blockchain Layers Explained: L0, L1, L2, and L3
Manage your Bitcoin and crypto securely with the self-custody Bitcoin.com Wallet app.

Table of Contents

  1. Layer 0: The Foundation (Interoperability and Communication)
  2. Layer 1: The Base Layer (Security and Consensus)
  3. Layer 2: Scaling Solutions (Efficiency and Throughput)
  4. Layer 3: Applications (User Experience & dApps)
  5. How These Layers Work Together
  6. Examples of Blockchain Layers in Action
  7. Conclusion

Buy as little as $30 worth to get started

Buy as little as $30 worth to get started

Choose from Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, Ethereum, and more

Related guides

Start from here →
What is Bitcoin?
What is Bitcoin?

Get a straightforward introduction to Bitcoin and why it matters.

Read this article →
What is Bitcoin?
What is Bitcoin?

Get a straightforward introduction to Bitcoin and why it matters.

What is Ethereum?
What is Ethereum?

Understand Ethereum's key characteristics.

Read this article →
What is Ethereum?
What is Ethereum?

Understand Ethereum's key characteristics.

What is a Blockchain?
What is a Blockchain?

This beginner's guide explains blockchain, its importance in cryptocurrencies, and how it works. Explore its uses, advantages, and future potential.

Read this article →
What is a Blockchain?
What is a Blockchain?

This beginner's guide explains blockchain, its importance in cryptocurrencies, and how it works. Explore its uses, advantages, and future potential.

What are Bitcoin ETFs?
What are Bitcoin ETFs?

Learn about Bitcoin Layer-2 solutions and how they may enable Bitcoin to scale.

Read this article →
What are Bitcoin ETFs?
What are Bitcoin ETFs?

Learn about Bitcoin Layer-2 solutions and how they may enable Bitcoin to scale.

What is layer 2 on Ethereum?
What is layer 2 on Ethereum?

Layer 2 is an umbrella term to describe solutions that build on top of Ethereum mainnet (layer 1) to improve the scalability of the Ethereum network.

Read this article →
What is layer 2 on Ethereum?
What is layer 2 on Ethereum?

Layer 2 is an umbrella term to describe solutions that build on top of Ethereum mainnet (layer 1) to improve the scalability of the Ethereum network.

What are Crypto Bridges?
What are Crypto Bridges?

Crypto bridges connect blockchains, enabling interoperability and the transfer of tokens and data.

Read this article →
What are Crypto Bridges?
What are Crypto Bridges?

Crypto bridges connect blockchains, enabling interoperability and the transfer of tokens and data.

Bitcoin.com in your inbox

A weekly rundown of the news that matters, plus educational resources and updates on products & services that support economic freedom

Wallets
Start investing safely with the Bitcoin.com Wallet
Over wallets created so far

Everything you need to buy, sell, trade, and invest your Bitcoin and cryptocurrency securely

Download now