Base Sepolia, a crucial step towards decentralizing Layer 2 (L2) networks, is set to introduce fault proofs in mid-July. This significant advancement aims to enhance network security and reliability by ensuring the integrity of transactions. Understanding the implications of this development is essential as Base continues to evolve.

Withdrawals Affected

Withdrawals on the testnet will undergo significant changes with the implementation of fault proofs. They will now take at least seven days to complete, compared to the previous instant processing. The system will switch from using the “L2OutputOracle” to the “DisputeGameFactory” for proposing output root claims. Users currently withdrawing funds should note the timing: withdrawals initiated before the mid-July upgrade will still be processed instantly, while those started during or after the upgrade will be subject to the new seven-day minimum wait time.

Base Growth and Preparations

Coinbase’s Base has witnessed strong growth in transaction volumes and fees amid a large number of project listings on the platform this year. The demand for this Layer 2 network is so high that Base faced a situation of network congestion a few months ago. However, this surge in gas fees has led to strong earnings for Coinbase. Base TVL stands above $1.58 billion at press time.

Teams operating bridges on Base Sepolia need to prepare by updating their user interfaces to inform users about the upcoming changes, especially the new withdrawal timeframe. They should also review and update their bridging logic to work with the new L1 contracts. The upgrade itself will be done in a single transaction, requiring no action from node operators.