EigenDA Enhances Security and Scalability

EigenDA, a data availability (DA) solution on Ethereum's EigenLayer, has introduced enhanced security measures to protect its platform. These measures include using IP addresses and the Elliptic Curve Digital Signature Algorithm (ECDSA) for authentication, aimed at combating Sybil and distributed denial of service (DDoS) attacks.

EigenDA’s new approach involves a whitelist that employs IP addresses or Ethereum’s ECDSA for authentication. This strategy aims to provide robust protection against Sybil and DDoS attacks, enhancing the overall security of the platform.

EigenDA’s current free tier offers a throughput of up to 768KB within 10 minutes. This capacity is more than sufficient for most active Ethereum rollups, including the Coinbase-backed Base network, which uses fewer than two blobs every 10 minutes.

Moreover, EigenDA allows its partners to request additional throughput beyond the free tier. Interested parties can register through the partner registration page to meet their data needs. EigenDA reports generating synthetic loads of 0.6 megabytes per second and achieving peak throughputs of up to 10 MB per second on the mainnet.

“EigenDA currently continuously generates synthetic load of 0.6 MB/sec and we have been running load tests on mainnet at peak throughput up to 10 MB/s. For comparison, Ethereum’s 4844 blob throughput is 0.032 MB/s and Celestia mainnet is ⅙ MB/s,” EigenDA stated. This flexibility supports various high-throughput applications that might require high-demand use cases.

EigenDA plans to introduce a permissionless payment system for blob throughput before the end of the year. With this system, platforms requiring high throughput could enjoy reserved bandwidth at a fixed rate. This development aligns with the Eigen Foundation’s recent initiative to open claims for the second phase of its first season stakedrop. Users of liquid restaking protocols like Kelp and Pendle can now claim their tokens before September 7. The Eigen tokens from the first season are currently claimable but not transferable, with transfers expected to be enabled by September 2024.

EigenLayer allows users to deposit and “re-stake” ETH to secure third-party networks or actively validated services. Since its launch in June 2023, around $18.5 billion worth of Ethereum has been re-staked on the platform, according to DeFiLlama data.

The introduction of IP addresses and ECDSA for authentication marks a significant upgrade in EigenDA’s security protocol. By leveraging these methods, EigenDA aims to create a more secure environment for its users, protecting against malicious activities and ensuring the integrity of the platform. This approach also simplifies the process of verifying users and maintaining a whitelist, making it harder for attackers to exploit the system.

EigenDA’s ability to generate synthetic loads and conduct load tests at high throughputs demonstrates its capacity to support demanding applications. The platform’s performance metrics, such as continuous synthetic loads of 0.6 MB/sec and peak throughput tests reaching 10 MB/sec, showcase its readiness for high-demand scenarios. This capability is crucial for applications that require consistent and reliable data availability.

The planned permissionless payment system for blob throughput is a notable upcoming feature. This system will allow users to access reserved bandwidth at a fixed rate, ensuring they have the necessary resources for their operations. This development is part of EigenDA’s broader strategy to enhance its service offerings and provide more flexible solutions to its users.

The Eigen Foundation’s initiative to open claims for the second phase of its first season stakedrop is another significant development. Users of liquid restaking protocols can now claim their tokens, although these tokens are not yet transferable. Transfers are expected to be enabled by September 2024, providing users with more flexibility in managing their assets.

In summary, EigenDA’s new security measures and enhanced throughput capabilities position it as a robust solution for data availability on Ethereum. By addressing security concerns and offering scalable solutions, EigenDA continues to evolve and meet the needs of its users in the rapidly changing landscape of blockchain technology.