Ethereum Layer 2 network Base is pushing deeper into the race for blockchain scalability with the rollout of its first independent network upgrade, “Azul,” a move that could reduce withdrawal times to as little as one day while significantly improving transaction throughput.
The upgrade, which is already live on testnet and scheduled for mainnet activation, marks a major turning point for Base as it begins operating more independently from the broader Optimism infrastructure stack. According to the company, Azul is designed to strengthen security, improve developer experience, and accelerate network performance for the next phase of onchain growth.
Base said the new upgrade introduces a “multiproof” system that combines Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) proofs with Zero Knowledge (ZK) proofs. The hybrid structure allows either proof type to independently validate transactions, while combined verification can reduce withdrawal finality to roughly one day.
The development comes as Ethereum Layer 2 networks continue competing for dominance amid growing institutional and retail demand for faster and cheaper blockchain transactions.
Performance Push
Beyond faster withdrawals, Base claims Azul has already delivered measurable improvements internally.
According to the company, empty blocks on the network have dropped by approximately 99%, declining from around 200 daily to roughly two per day. The network also reported sustaining transaction bursts of up to 5,000 transactions per second during testing.
The company noted that the upgrade consolidates its infrastructure into a more streamlined performance focused client stack, with “base reth node” becoming the network’s sole execution client.
Industry watchers say the move signals Base’s growing ambition to position itself as more than just another Ethereum scaling solution.
“This is not just another routine update focused on tiny optimizations,” one community commentary on Reddit noted. “Azul changes the foundation of Base in ways that directly impact scalability, decentralization, developer experience, and long term infrastructure readiness.”
Security Remains Key Focus
Base also disclosed that every onchain component and proof system tied to Azul underwent both internal and external audits ahead of launch.
To further stress test the network before full deployment, the company launched an audit competition with Immunefi, offering rewards of up to $250,000 for critical vulnerability discoveries.
The emphasis on security comes at a time when blockchain exploits and bridge vulnerabilities continue to raise concerns across the crypto industry.
Bigger Strategy Beyond Azul
Azul is expected to be the first in a series of upgrades planned by Base over the coming months.
The network said upcoming releases will focus on performance improvements, reduced withdrawal times, and native account abstraction features aimed at improving user experience. Base also plans to introduce “Base Vibenet,” a public developer network where builders can experiment with upcoming tools and features before they reach mainnet.
The broader strategy reflects a growing trend among Layer 2 networks seeking greater infrastructure independence while preparing for mainstream blockchain adoption.
For developers and users across emerging crypto markets, including Africa, upgrades like Azul could help improve transaction efficiency, lower friction for cross border payments, and support faster settlement experiences across decentralized applications.
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