LayerZero Streamlines Network Support, Services to Cease for 15 Chains
The cross-chain interoperability protocol LayerZero has made a significant operational announcement. In a move to concentrate resources on high-activity and high-potency ecosystems, the protocol will gradually phase out off-chain support for a group of blockchains with minimal user activity over the next 30 days.
Which Networks Are Impacted?
The adjustment affects a total of 15 networks. According to the announcement, the following blockchains will no longer receive LayerZero's off-chain infrastructure support:
- EDU Chain
- Meter
- Shimmer
- Cyber
- Silicon
- Sophon
- Bitlayer
- DFK Chain
- Arbitrum Nova
- DOS Chain
- Cronos zkEVM
- Degen
- Skale Europa
- Superposition
- Shrapnel
What Services Are Being Withdrawn?
The termination of services means these networks will lose access to LayerZero's core off-chain components.
Firstly, the Decentralized Verification Network (DVN) and Executor services will be fully withdrawn from the listed networks. These are critical infrastructures ensuring secure and reliable cross-chain message delivery. Their removal will directly impact the operation of LayerZero-based dApps on these chains.
Secondly, some networks will also lose support from Stargate Hydra. Stargate is the core cross-chain bridge within the LayerZero ecosystem, with Hydra as its scaling solution. This may hinder users' ability to seamlessly transfer certain assets through these networks.
Immediate Action Required for Users
LayerZero's announcement included a specific warning for users. If you hold assets bridged via Hydra—such as USDC.e, wETH, or Hydra USDT—on any of the affected chains, it is strongly advised to redeem or transfer those assets to other supported networks promptly.
The 30-day grace period is intended to provide developers and users with adequate time to adjust. Once services are fully terminated, managing related assets could become complicated or impossible.
Industry observers view this move as a proactive strategy by LayerZero amidst intensifying competition in the cross-chain sector. By pruning support and focusing on core ecosystems, the protocol aims to enhance the overall efficiency and security of its network, delivering more robust service to mainstream blockchains and users. This step may be necessary for the protocol's long-term, healthy development.