2026-01-08 06:54:58

Interesting perspective coming up. Vitalik recently discussed the positioning of Ethereum, and he believes that this blockchain can actually be understood from two completely different angles.

On one hand, Ethereum is like BitTorrent — this analogy is quite interesting. What does BitTorrent prove? It proves that decentralized technological solutions can run in large-scale applications and truly serve massive user bases, not just stay at the theoretical level. It eliminates centralized download methods, demonstrating that decentralized architecture is practically feasible and competitive.

From another perspective, Ethereum is more like Linux. Why this comparison? Because Linux showcases an open, decentralized system that can be widely adopted and deployed by enterprises and governments around the world. Linux is not a product of a single company, but precisely because of its open nature, it has gained the broadest application and trust.

Vitalik's point is very clear — Ethereum Layer 1 (L1) aims to embody both of these characteristics. It wants to demonstrate decentralized efficiency in large-scale applications like BitTorrent, while also building an open, trustworthy infrastructure system like Linux, allowing global participants to build upon it. This positioning indicates that Ethereum's thinking is far beyond just transaction efficiency; it concerns the sustainability and inclusiveness of the entire ecosystem architecture.

ETH2,37%

View Original

This page may contain third-party content, which is provided for information purposes only (not representations/warranties) and should not be considered as an endorsement of its views by Gate, nor as financial or professional advice. See Disclaimer for details.

22 Likes

Reward
22
6
Repost
Share

Comment

0/400

DustCollector

· 01-11 06:08

Hey, that analogy is really brilliant. Using BitTorrent and Linux to describe Ethereum really captures that feeling. Wait, sustainability and inclusivity? Sounds ideal, but what about the gas fees haha. Vitalik's idea is quite ambitious; it only counts if it can really be implemented. The Linux example is the best; it's a complete open ecosystem that completely outperforms centralized systems. Having a clear positioning isn't enough; the key is whether Layer2 can truly support it. I agree with the BitTorrent part; decentralization should be practical and effective.

View OriginalReply0

FOMOSapien

· 01-10 18:50

BitTorrent and Linux are quite comparable. It seems Vitalik has really thought through what Ethereum is supposed to do this time. But honestly, whether these two goals can truly be achieved still depends on what happens next. L1 is still struggling to balance performance and security. Linux has been successful for so many years, and it will probably take a long time for Ethereum to reach that level of maturity.

View OriginalReply0

DAOdreamer

· 01-08 07:25

The analogy between BitTorrent and Linux is quite brilliant, truly capturing Ethereum's ambition. But in reality, can these two features actually be implemented...

View OriginalReply0

VibesOverCharts

· 01-08 07:22

Fun is here. Vitalik's analogy is truly brilliant. BitTorrent has beaten centralized downloading, and now they want to use the same tactic to fight traditional finance? Linux's open ecosystem is indeed impressive, but the problem is, can ordinary people afford Ethereum's current gas fees? I can't see how. It's nice to call it an ecosystem of inclusivity, but frankly, we're still verifying whether it works or not. At the end of the day, it still depends on user data. Ideals alone are not enough.

View OriginalReply0

PositionPhobia

· 01-08 07:14

Alright, this analogy is indeed brilliant, but can L1 really hold up, or will it continue to rely on the ecosystem to prop it up?

View OriginalReply0

AirdropHarvester

· 01-08 07:05

The analogy between BitTorrent and Linux is quite brilliant; it feels like V God really hit the nail on the head this time. I respect the Linux example—openness actually leads to victory. However, Ethereum's current gas fees are still a bit high; just shouting about inclusivity isn't enough. With so many L2 solutions, can we really build the ecosystem we've imagined? The vision sounds great, but what about reality?

View OriginalReply0