Is 2024 poised to become the Era of Modular Blockchains?

Periodically, a new crypto ecosystem emerges, fundamentally distinct from its predecessors:

• DeFi in 2020

• NFTs in 2021

There's a compelling argument that the groundwork is swiftly materializing for a trend akin to modular blockchains. These are tailor-made chains that assemble various blockchain components like building blocks to suit specific requirements:

• Settlement

• Data availability

• Execution environment

Due to their high level of customization, modular blockchains are optimal for app-chains and smart contract chains designed for specific purposes. While launching such customized chains was once a monumental task, new rollup-as-a-service solutions have simplified the process with just a few clicks.

This infrastructure enhancement could potentially lead to the launch of dozens, if not hundreds, of modular blockchains this year. One notable beneficiary is Celestia, a data availability layer on Cosmos. Dan Smith from Blockworks Research envisions the future possibilities for Celestia.

Another key player in the modular expansion is Dymension. Seeking to establish an IBC-enabled standard for rollups, Dymension enables developers to deploy a custom rollup effortlessly. In an interview with The Rollup, the Dymension founder delves into how their platform integrates into the modular ecosystem.