Ethereum Sets New Gas Limit Cap to 16,777,216 Units Per Transaction
A new proposal, EIP-7983, co-authored by Vitalik Buterin and Toni Wahrstaetter, seeks to introduce a hard cap on the maximum gas a transaction can consume on the Ethereum network. The proposed cap of 16,777,216 gas (2²⁴) per transaction aims to strengthen network stability, improve efficiency, and make the chain more viable for certain applications. Currently, a single Ethereum transaction can consume as much gas as an entire block allows, introducing performance and security challenges.
There’s a new proposal, EIP-7983, which Vitalik Buterin and Toni Wahrstaetter co-authored. It seeks to introduce a hard cap on the maximum gas a transaction can consume on the Ethereum network. This move could strengthen network stability, improve efficiency, and make the chain more viable for specific applications.
The proposal limits individual transactions to 16,777,216 gas (2²⁴). Recently, a single Ethereum transaction can consume as much gas as an entire block allows, introducing several performance and security challenges. This design choice disrupts workload distribution, reduces block execution efficiency, and presents challenges for developers working on zero-knowledge virtual machines (zkVMs) and parallel execution engines.
Benefits of the Proposed Cap for Ethereum
The proposed cap of 16,777,216 gas (2²⁴) per transaction, according to proponents, will simplify these pain points. It will improve workload distribution and block execution efficiency. It will further enable easier subdivision of tasks and downstream engineering. Thereby, aligning with Ethereum’s shift towards modularity and provability.
The new proposal would require dividing large transactions, such as contract deployments, into smaller chunks. However, authors of the proposal argue that most real-world activities are already way below the limit, and edge cases are minimal.
Furthermore, the proposal, EIP-7983, will help to build on earlier resource-bounding initiatives. This will demonstrate a growing consensus that Ethereum’s base layer should provide stronger execution guarantees as it scales. The proposal is currently in draft status and is open for review by the broader community.
This also marks a significant milestone in Ethereum’s journey towards a more secure, efficient, and scalable blockchain. This development presents opportunities for growth, innovation, and improved user experience.
Benefits for the Crypto Community
The new proposal will promote a more stable and competitive environment for developers and companies. It will further enhance integration with zero-knowledge (zk) technologies and DeFi growth. Providing an effective shield against abuse and congestion.
In addition, as the Ethereum community adapts to this change, it’s essential to update tools and smart contracts to comply with the new threshold. Additionally, monitor long-term effects and continue promoting updates that strike a balance between innovation, security, and inclusivity
