Base Breaks Free: Consolidates Codebase, Reduces Reliance on Optimism

Base, an Ethereum (ETH) Layer 2 network backed by Coinbase, is taking a major step towards independence. The blockchain announced that it will be consolidating its codebase away from Optimism's OP Stack into a Base-operated repository. This move aims to reduce the network's reliance on external dependencies, which have powered Base since its August 2023 launch.

The change will require node operators to migrate from Optimism releases to Base's client software to remain compatible with future network upgrades. The new unified stack, designated 'base/base,' consolidates previously distributed codebase elements into a single repository built on open-source components including Reth.

This transition is expected to increase Base's hard fork schedule from three to six per year. The Base Security Council is also adding an independent signer to replace Optimism's position. Despite this, Base will continue purchasing support from Optimism through its OP Enterprise program and maintains Stage 1 decentralization status under Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin's rollup classification system.

The market impact of the announcement was felt, with Optimism's OP token declining 4% in the 24 hours following. Base currently holds $3.85 billion in total value locked, making it the largest blockchain in what was the OP Stack Superchain ecosystem. The roadmap includes transitioning from optimistic to TEE/ZK proofs in an upcoming hard fork.