Ethereum Completes Fusaka BPO Fork to Boost Layer 2 Data Availability

Ethereum Completes BPO Fork, Boosting Network Flexibility

(Source: THE BLOCK)

On January 8, 2026, the Ethereum network finalized the last stage of the Fusaka upgrade with the Blob Parameters Only (BPO) fork. This update increases the maximum number of Ethereum blobs per block to 21, significantly strengthening Layer 2 data availability. This change creates a more cost-effective storage environment for Rollups. The BPO mechanism is a key part of Ethereum updates 2026, enabling developers to gradually adjust network parameters without depending on large, risky annual hard forks. This provides a secure way to test the network’s performance limits while ensuring stability.

How the BPO Mechanism Improves Ethereum Scaling

• The BPO framework operates through phased updates and incremental scaling. It allows Ethereum to independently modify specific network parameters, such as the blob target per block, which minimizes the risks associated with sweeping changes.
• By gradually raising the blob target and cap per block, the network can safely handle higher transaction throughput while maintaining reliability.
• As blob counts rise, Layer 2 networks benefit directly from improved data availability. This allows Rollups to store transaction batches on the mainnet at lower costs, helping to keep gas fees stable for end users.

Understanding Blobs and Layer 2 Integration

Blobs, originally introduced in the 2024 Dencun upgrade, are large binary data blocks that enable Layer 2 Rollups to record high volumes of transactions on the mainnet at minimal cost. Each blob remains on-chain for 18 days before permanent deletion. The Fusaka upgrade brings several enhancements to this system, including PeerDAS data validation. This technology lets nodes sample and verify blob data, improving overall data integrity and security for the ecosystem.

BPO Fork Milestones: Tracking the Upgrade

• The rollout of this upgrade occurred in two distinct phases. The first BPO took place on December 9, increasing the target blobs per block from 6 to 10, and the maximum from 9 to 15.
• The second BPO occurred on January 8, raising the target blobs to 14, and the maximum to 21.

The Ethereum foundation notes that more blobs mean greater data availability for Layer 2 networks. Gradually raising the blob cap helps reduce Rollup data costs, keeps Layer 2 transaction fees low, and supports scalable growth as part of the roadmap for Ethereum updates 2026.

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Fusaka Upgrade: The Future of Ethereum Scaling

The Fusaka upgrade and BPO fork showcase Ethereum’s long-term strategy for sustainable network scaling. By incrementally increasing blob limits per block, the blockchain improves Layer 2 data availability and effectively lowers costs for developers and users. This flexible, phased approach is essential for keeping transaction fees low as demand grows, ensuring the network expands securely. For the broader market, Ethereum’s ability to efficiently support more Layer 2 applications drives the ecosystem’s long-term healthy development for Ethereum in 2026.