In the world of blockchain, Layer 1 blockchains are increasingly becoming the foundational platforms for the development of decentralized applications (dApps) and blockchain technology. However, one of the main challenges that blockchains face is scalability and performance. This is where subnets come in as an optimal solution. So, what are the benefits of subnet in Layer 1 blockchain and why are they so important? Let’s explore in detail in the article below.

What is a Subnet?

A subnet (or subnetwork) is a partition of a network within a blockchain system, divided into independent subnets. Each subnet can operate as a separate blockchain but remains connected to the main network (mainnet). Subnets are used to allocate resources, optimize transaction processes, and enhance the scalability of the entire blockchain system.

In a Layer 1 blockchain, subnets allow the creation of independent networks where each subnet can process transactions, store data, and verify information without affecting other subnets. This provides exceptional scalability and optimizes performance for decentralized applications (dApps) on the blockchain.

Features of Subnet Networks

Subnet in Layer 1 blockchains offer several key features that help optimize the operation of blockchain systems, including self-management, customization, and efficient segregation. Below are some of the notable features of subnets:

Independence and self-management: One of the most important features of subnets is their independence in managing transactions and data. Each subnet can handle its own transactions and applications without affecting other subnets. This reduces the load on the main system and enhances the scalability of the blockchain. For example, if one subnet experiences issues or attacks, the other subnets can continue operating without disruption.
High customization: Subnets allow developers to customize blockchain features to meet the specific needs of each application or user group. Each subnet can have different configurations in terms of security, transaction speed, and scalability, allowing better responsiveness to market demands and user requirements. This helps blockchain applications run efficiently without being restricted by the main network.
Resource management: Subnets can efficiently allocate resources such as processors, memory, and bandwidth, thereby optimizing the use of blockchain resources. Each subnet can use its own resources without sharing them with other subnets, reducing costs and boosting performance for specific application groups.
Enhanced security: Each subnet can implement its own security mechanisms, helping to strengthen the protection of transactions and data within that subnet. For instance, applications requiring high security can use stronger security mechanisms, while other applications can use lighter ones without compromising performance.

Thanks to these features, subnets play a crucial role in optimizing performance and security for Layer 1 blockchains. Subnets help build a flexible blockchain system that can meet the high demands for scalability and security while also reducing operational costs.

The operation of Subnet in Layer 1 Blockchain

Subnet in Layer 1 blockchains operate by separating the functions of the main blockchain into independent subnetworks. Each subnet can process transactions and data separately while maintaining a connection to the mainnet and other subnets. Specifically, subnets operate as follows:

IP address structure

An IP address has two main parts:

Network Prefix: Used to identify the network to which the device belongs.
Host ID: Used to identify specific devices within the network.

The network prefix and host ID together form a unique IP address. When we divide a network into subnets, we separate the host ID to create multiple sub-networks.

Subnet mask

To divide into subnets, we use a subnet mask. The subnet mask defines which part of the IP address will be used to identify the subnet and which part will be used for devices within the subnet.

How the subnet mask works:

The subnet mask is represented as a series of ‘1’ bits for the network part and a series of ‘0’ bits for the host part.
For example, with an IP address of 192.168.1.0 and a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0, the first part of the address (192.168.1) will be the subnet, and the last part (0) will be the host.

Broadcast address

Once a subnet is divided, the broadcast address is used to send messages to all devices within that subnet. The broadcast address is determined by:

Setting all remaining bits of the host ID to ‘1’ after reserving some bits for the subnet.
The broadcast address helps send data to all devices in a subnet without specifying each device’s address.

For example, if a subnet has a subnet mask of 255.255.255.0, the broadcast address will be 192.168.1.255, where data packets will be sent to all devices in the 192.168.1.x subnet.

Subnetting process

To divide a network into subnets, the following steps are taken:

Determine the subnet size: Identify how many devices need to be connected within the subnet. Depending on the number of devices, the subnet mask will be adjusted to fit.
Calculate the subnet mask: Replace bits in the network ID with ‘1’ and then allocate some bits from the host ID to create subnets.
Identify subnets and broadcast addresses: Based on the subnet mask, identify the subnets and broadcast addresses for each subnet.

Example of subnetting

Assume a company has an IP address of 192.168.0.0/24. The company needs to divide this network into 4 subnets:

Subnet 1: 192.168.0.0/26
Subnet 2: 192.168.0.64/26
Subnet 3: 192.168.0.128/26
Subnet 4: 192.168.0.192/26

Each subnet can hold up to 62 devices. The broadcast addresses for each subnet will be 192.168.0.63, 192.168.0.127, 192.168.0.191, and 192.168.0.255.

Subnetting helps improve network management and optimize performance in large network systems. By using subnet masks and determining broadcast addresses, networks can operate independently while maintaining optimal connectivity and performance.

Benefits of Subnet in Layer 1 Blockchain

Enhanced scalability: One of the biggest advantages of subnets is their superior scalability. Subnets address blockchain congestion by breaking the network into independent sections, allowing each part to process transactions separately without impacting the others. This increases the scalability of the blockchain without reducing the performance of the main system.
Optimized resource management: Subnets help manage resources efficiently by distributing processors, memory, and bandwidth to each specific subnet. This not only reduces operational costs but also enhances performance for decentralized applications, optimizing the overall blockchain system.
Improved security: Each subnet can implement separate security mechanisms, helping to reduce the risk of network attacks and protecting user data. If one subnet is attacked, the other subnets can continue operating normally, safeguarding the entire blockchain system from security breaches.
Lower operational costs: Using subnets helps reduce operational costs and optimize resource utilization. Each subnet can operate applications and services independently, reducing the load on the main system and optimizing the cost of maintaining the network.
Better application management and development: Subnets improve the process of developing and managing blockchain applications. Development teams can focus on specific applications without interference from external factors, creating a faster and more efficient development environment.

Subnet in Layer 1 blockchain offer several significant benefits to the blockchain system, such as improved scalability, enhanced security, optimized resource use, and increased flexibility. With subnets, developers can build and deploy customized blockchain applications efficiently, expanding the system’s scale without compromising the performance and security of the entire network. If you’re looking for an optimal blockchain solution, consider using subnet in Layer 1 blockchain as a viable method.

Don’t forget to follow our latest posts at Solution Of Blockchain to stay updated with useful information and knowledge every day!