Ethereum Takes a Giant Leap Towards Amsterdam Hardfork
The Ethereum network is one step closer to its Amsterdam hardfork, a major protocol upgrade designed to enhance its Layer 1 capabilities. On July 27, 2026, the go-ethereum client version 1.17.5 was released, codenamed 'Grav-Torque Pad'. This update includes maintenance fixes and significant strides toward the upcoming Amsterdam hardfork.
The Amsterdam hardfork aims to transform Ethereum from a sequential processor into a more efficient, multi-lane system. It will combine two-layer upgrades: 'Gloas' for the consensus layer and 'Amsterdam' for the execution layer.
Key features of the Amsterdam hardfork include Enshrined Proposer-Builder Separation (EIP-7732) and Block-Level Access Lists (EIP-7928). EIP-7732 moves block building directly into the protocol layer, enhancing decentralization. Block-Level Access Lists enable parallel transaction processing by declaring in advance which accounts and smart contract data a block will access.
The upgrade is expected to significantly increase the network's transaction processing speed and throughput, with estimates suggesting up to 10,000 transactions per second (TPS). The Amsterdam hardfork also aims to reduce Layer 1 fees by approximately 78.6% through a package of gas repricing EIPs.