The Starknet-based Madara network has integrated Avail as a data availability solution, as announced on December 20. This integration is expected to significantly reduce data publishing costs by up to 90%, compared to using Ethereum for the same purpose, without requiring permissions. The Madara network, which employs zero-knowledge validity proofs and operates as a layer 2 on Ethereum, is often categorized as a "Layer 3" network. These networks utilize a universally decentralized sequencer to avoid censorship risks. Madara is designed to cater to specific applications, with examples like Mangata Finance, Kakachain, Tobi, and Alakazam.
Avail functions within the Ethereum ecosystem, focusing on data availability. When Ethereum layer 2 networks use Avail, they can publish proofs of validity on Ethereum while storing compressed transaction data on Avail. This structure not only cuts down on transaction costs but also necessitates Avail's continuous operation for smooth deposits and withdrawals. Such networks, which store transaction data off-chain, are known as "validiums". This contrasts with "rollups," where all data is published to Ethereum, resulting in higher transaction fees.
Prior to the integration with Avail, Madara network had the alternative of using a Data Availability Committee (DAC) for storing its data, which also served the purpose of reducing transaction costs. DACs are composed of whitelisted, trusted organizations providing data availability services. With the new partnership, Madara Network can now choose Avail over DAC for storing its compressed data, a move that might appeal to networks seeking a decentralized approach for this service. Avail, which operates a decentralized blockchain supporting up to 1,000 external validators, offers a more trustless environment compared to DACs.
The concept of DACs, which emerged in the early stages of zero-knowledge proof technology, has been met with some criticism in the industry. Daniel Goldman, an engineer at Offchain Labs, has labeled DACs as potentially problematic, citing concerns over their potential to allow malicious committees to indefinitely freeze funds on a chain. Avail, initially developed by Polygon Labs in 2021, eventually evolved into an independent project. In July, it launched a test bridge connecting to Ethereum, illustrating the growing ecosystem of blockchain networks dedicated to data availability, including others like Celestia, which recently integrated with Polygon CDK.
This advancement represents a significant step in blockchain network evolution, particularly for Layer 3 networks like Madara. By opting for Avail's decentralized data availability solution, these networks can achieve greater efficiency and security, moving away from reliance on centralized or semi-centralized data availability options like DACs. This move is expected to enhance the robustness and trustworthiness of the blockchain infrastructure, supporting a more decentralized and secure ecosystem for users and developers.
