Ethereum's Future: Transition to Binary Tree Structure and RISC-V Architecture

Vitalik Buterin recently shared a comprehensive technical approach for the execution layer of Ethereum. This plan includes two main changes: transforming the state tree into a binary structure and upgrading the virtual machine architecture. These improvements are designed to significantly enhance Ethereum’s scalability and efficiency.

Conversion of State Tree to Binary Structure: The Importance of EIP-7864

Currently, Ethereum uses the hexadecimal Keccak MPT ( Merkle Patricia Tree ) for its state structure. According to EIP-7864 proposed by Vitalik, this system will be converted into a binary tree-based structure, which will be based on a more efficient hash function. This technical change will provide several significant benefits:

The length of the Merkle branch will be reduced by a factor of 4, making it faster to process data proofs. The efficiency of proving will improve by 3 to 100 times, enhancing the overall performance capacity of the network. Additionally, the binary structure will also reduce the cost of accessing neighboring storage slots, making the execution of smart contracts more cost-effective.

Transfer from EVM to RISC-V: Three-Step Action Plan

In the long-term perspective, Vitalik has outlined a plan to gradually replace the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) with the RISC-V architecture. RISC-V is an open and modular instruction set architecture that offers more flexibility and better performance compared to the EVM.

This transformation will be carried out in a well-thought-out three-step process. In the first step, pre-compiled contracts will be translated into RISC-V. In the second step, new network participants will be allowed to deploy smart contracts on the new virtual machine. In the third and final step, existing smart contracts built on the old EVM will be migrated to the new RISC-V based system.

Improving Network Efficiency and Future Scaling

These two upgrades address the main challenges faced by Ethereum. Transforming the state tree into a binary structure will significantly enhance client-side proofing capabilities, facilitating the future development of layer-2 solutions and light clients. The transition from EVM to RISC-V will improve the network’s functionality while also simplifying the protocol design.

These strategic reforms lay the necessary infrastructure to elevate Ethereum’s scalability to new heights. Vitalik’s vision shows that Ethereum is committed not only to technological innovation but is also systematically planning for long-term development.