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Chain Guides5 min read

Taiko: The Based Rollup Secured by Ethereum Validators

Learn about Taiko — a unique Layer 2 that uses Ethereum validators for sequencing, maximizing decentralization.

What Is a Based Rollup?

Most L2 rollups use a centralized sequencer to order transactions. Taiko is a based rollup — it delegates sequencing to Ethereum L1 validators, inheriting Ethereum decentralization from day one.

How Taiko Works

  • Anyone can propose blocks on Taiko (permissionless proposing)
  • Ethereum validators include Taiko block proposals in L1 blocks
  • Provers generate ZK proofs verifying Taiko block validity
  • Multi-tier proving system ensures security and cost efficiency

    • Why Based Sequencing Matters

    Advantages

    • Maximum decentralization: No single sequencer to censor or reorder
    • Ethereum alignment: Sequencing revenue flows to ETH stakers, not a separate entity
    • Liveness guarantee: As long as Ethereum runs, Taiko runs
    • No sequencer extractable value: Reduces MEV concerns

    Tradeoffs

    • Slower pre-confirmations: ~12 second blocks (Ethereum block time) vs sub-second for centralized sequencers
    • Higher costs initially: L1 inclusion is more expensive than centralized sequencing

    TAIKO Token

    Used for governance, proving bonds, and participating in the Taiko ecosystem.

    Ecosystem

    Taiko is EVM-equivalent (type-1 zkEVM), meaning any Ethereum dApp deploys without modification. This attracts protocols like:

    • Major DEX deployments

    • Lending protocols

    • NFT marketplaces


    Using Taiko Through Alkizen

    Bridge to Taiko from any supported chain through Alkizen. Enjoy based rollup security with the convenience of one-click cross-chain swaps.

    taikobased rolluplayer 2ethereum