In a recent online conversation on social media platform X, Marc Boiron, the CEO of Polygon Labs, strongly criticized the growing popularity of Layer 3 networks. Boiron argued that these networks, known as L3s, are not essential for expanding Ethereum's capabilities and could instead pose a threat to the network's efficiency.

According to Boiron, L3s are designed to siphon off value from Ethereum and redirect it towards the Layer 2 solutions they are built upon, rather than enhancing Ethereum's scalability. He emphasized that the integration of L3s is not a prerequisite for scaling Ethereum.

Boiron made it clear that Polygon Labs does not involve itself in the development of Layer 3 networks. While acknowledging the importance of Layer 2 solutions within the Ethereum ecosystem, he disputed the idea that the value of Layer 2 equates to the value of Ethereum. He warned of potential risks to Ethereum's security if all Layer 3 networks converged on a single Layer 2, which could undermine Ethereum's ability to capture value and jeopardize its economic stability.

In Boiron's perspective, a scenario where Ethereum fails to generate fees or lacks future fee-generating opportunities beyond a single Layer 2 could lead to a decline in the value of ETH. This situation might erode validators' trust in ETH, resulting in decreased network security as validators withdraw their support.

The debate surrounding the advantages of Layer 3 networks continues to intensify. Peter Haymond, a community member involved in developing scaling solutions for Ethereum, argued that Layer 3 networks offer numerous benefits and do not necessarily detract from Ethereum's value.

Boiron highlighted various aspects of the benefits associated with Layer 2 (L2) solutions, particularly underscoring the cost-effectiveness of native bridging. While acknowledging the advantages of native bridging, he also raised concerns about the economic and security implications of relying on external bridges, which could lead to capital usage delays or necessitate payments for expedited transactions.

Furthermore, Boiron questioned the perceived advantages of low challenge or proof costs, suggesting that these benefits might not hold true in light of proof aggregation. He also dismissed the idea of custom gas tokens as a significant benefit, noting their availability for Layer 2 solutions on Polygon CDK.

Ultimately, Boiron categorized other potential benefits as not exclusively tied to Layer 2 solutions, as they are also accessible for Layer 2 networks, as previously mentioned.