When will Ethereum stop changing? Vitalik Buterin's vision of stabilization

Vitalik Buterin, co-founder of Ethereum, has expressed an intriguing idea about the future development of the platform — the gradual freezing of the protocol to ensure long-term reliability. This does not mean a complete halt, but rather a transition from a mode of frequent updates to a mode of stability. Such an approach is familiar in the industry, exemplified by Bitcoin, which has maintained a highly conservative course over the years.

Why is protocol stabilization becoming inevitable?

After achieving key scalability and optimization goals, Ethereum must move into a new phase. At this stage, the primary center of ossification — the critical point of freezing the core code — becomes crucial. Too frequent changes to the protocol create vulnerabilities, complicate management, and undermine trust among investors and developers.

A stable protocol is the foundation for a reliable ecosystem of decentralized applications. When the code stops changing every month, developers can focus on creating innovations at the application layer rather than adapting to constant changes at the core level.

Three pillars of Buterin’s vision

Starting with innovation, ending with stability. In the early stages, blockchain needs experimentation and solving technical problems. Ethereum has undergone major updates: Merge, Shanghai, Dencun. But there will come a time when, instead of new features, the priority will be consolidating what already works.

Decentralized community of developers. One of the dangers is when a few influential figures determine the fate of the entire network. Buterin emphasizes the importance of expanding the ecosystem of researchers and developers. Diversity of voices in decision-making helps prevent centralization.

Focus on critical issues. Before freezing the protocol, scalability, security, and usability problems must be addressed. Layer 2 solutions are already operational, but the main chain must be optimized to the maximum.

From Bitcoin to Ethereum: different paths, different goals

Bitcoin serves as an example of successful protocol ossification. Over the years, the network has maintained a conservative approach, minimizing changes to the core code. This has strengthened Bitcoin’s reputation as digital gold.

Ethereum is in a different situation. As a platform for smart contracts and decentralized applications, it requires greater flexibility. The question is how to find the golden mean between innovation and stability. Ethereum cannot simply copy Bitcoin — its architecture and objectives are significantly different.

Main challenges on the path to stabilization

Scalability. Ethereum needs to process thousands of transactions per second. Yes, Layer 2 solutions exist, but the base layer also needs optimization before freezing.

Governance. How to make decisions in a decentralized system? The process must be transparent, inclusive, and reflect the interests of the community rather than a few large players.

Threat of centralization. There is a significant risk that large organizations or investors will exert excessive influence over the network’s development. The solution is to expand community-driven initiatives.

The community is divided, but the discussion continues

Not everyone agrees with Buterin’s idea. Opponents of freezing fear that it will lock in not only vulnerabilities but also the ability to adapt to future challenges. For example, the emergence of new attack types or technological breakthroughs may require significant protocol changes.

Supporters, on the other hand, see stabilization as the only way to prevent endless governance wars and ensure the long-term security of the network.

Ethereum’s new era: governance through collaboration

Buterin’s vision suggests that Ethereum should develop through open collaboration among a diverse community of researchers, developers, and stakeholders. Transparent decision-making processes, inclusive participation, and a balance between innovation and reliability are the foundations of this approach.

Conclusion: the path to maturity

Protocol ossification is not the end of Ethereum but a stage of its maturation. When the platform transitions to a stable mode, innovation will not disappear — it will shift to the application layer and the ecosystem. Ethereum will be able to operate as a reliable infrastructure upon which the decentralized services of the future are built.

Decisions made today regarding the primary center of ossification will determine whether Ethereum can become a truly global platform or remain an experimental network.