In a significant development for Solana’s scalability ambitions, Jump Crypto’s Firedancer development team has put forth a daring proposal to alter the blockchain’s architecture by removing the block-level compute unit limit. This proposal, known as SIMD-0370, advocates for a new era of throughput, allowing block producers to create larger blocks. This shift could potentially transform how Solana handles high-demand periods by enabling more transactions to be processed without congestion.
What’s the Proposal?
Currently, Solana operates under a system where each block is capped at 60 million compute units—a safeguard designed to prevent validators from being overwhelmed. However, Jump Crypto’s Firedancer team suggests that the advent of the Alpenglow upgrade renders this cap unnecessary. They propose lifting the limit entirely, allowing blocks to accommodate as many transactions as validators can manage, based on their performance capabilities.
Earlier this year, another Solana core developer group recommended increasing the limit to 100 million compute units. However, the Firedancer team’s proposal goes a step further by advocating for complete removal of the cap. Supporters argue that this change could make Solana more resilient during high-demand events, such as new token launches or spikes in DeFi activities.
Support and Skepticism
Proponents of the proposal see it as a pathway to enhance Solana’s capacity to handle transactional surges. By enabling larger blocks, the network could potentially reduce congestion, minimize failed trades, and improve overall user experience during peak times. This flexibility is particularly appealing as Solana continues to evolve and expand its ecosystem.
However, not everyone in the Solana community is convinced. Some critics argue that the current blocks aren’t reaching their full capacity, so removing the limit might not make a significant difference. Anatoly Yakovenko, the founder of Solana, expressed this skepticism on the developer proposal forum. He pointed out that the network hasn’t experienced demand spikes that significantly drive up median or average fees, questioning the necessity of burst capacity.
Balancing Benefits and Risks
The debate around the proposal underscores the classic tension between scalability and security. Removing the compute unit cap could undoubtedly enhance throughput, but it also raises concerns about validator workload and network stability. The Solana community must weigh these factors carefully to decide if the potential benefits justify the risks.
If approved, this proposal could usher in a new chapter for Solana’s scalability, allowing it to better meet the demands of its growing user base. However, the decision to remove the block-level compute unit limit isn’t merely a technical one; it requires consensus within the community and a clear understanding of the implications.
Looking Ahead
As the discussion continues, the Solana community remains at a crossroads. The proposal is still in its early stages, and further deliberation is needed to ensure that all voices are heard and all potential outcomes are considered. The outcome of this discussion will not only impact Solana’s immediate future but also its long-term scalability and resilience.
In the rapidly evolving world of blockchain technology, adaptability is key. Solana’s ability to navigate this proposal and make informed decisions will be crucial in maintaining its competitive edge in the ever-growing crypto space. Whether the community chooses to embrace this bold proposal or opts for a more cautious approach, the decision will undoubtedly shape Solana’s trajectory in the years to come.
Steve Gregory is a lawyer in the United States who specializes in licensing for cryptocurrency companies and products. Steve began his career as an attorney in 2015 but made the switch to working in cryptocurrency full time shortly after joining the original team at Gemini Trust Company, an early cryptocurrency exchange based in New York City. Steve then joined CEX.io and was able to launch their regulated US-based cryptocurrency. Steve then went on to become the CEO at currency.com when he ran for four years and was able to lead currency.com to being fully acquired in 2025.
