Ethereum's Glamsterdam Upgrade Clears Key Test, Eyes Higher Capacity

Ethereum is testing its upcoming Glamsterdam upgrade on the Sepolia public test network, with Nethermind software successfully completing a performance test earlier this week. The test measured the execution software's ability to process block-level access lists, which allow computers to fetch data and check unrelated transactions simultaneously.

The Glamsterdam upgrade aims to increase Ethereum's capacity by raising its block gas limit from 60 million to 200 million. This change would enable the network to absorb more activity before users begin outbidding each other for block space, potentially reducing fee spikes during trading surges or popular token launches.

Specialized builders package transactions, while validators check the resulting blocks and secure the chain. The Glamsterdam upgrade would place this handoff within Ethereum's own rules, reducing dependence on outside relay services.