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Optimism (OP) announces a critical failure-proof update that impacts bridges and switches
Optimism (OP), a leading Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum, is set to implement significant changes to its Fault Proof system, which will directly impact bridges, centralized exchanges, and custom solutions that manage withdrawals. This development is crucial for stakeholders within the Optimism ecosystem, as they must adapt their systems to align with the new withdrawal verification process.
Overview of the fail-safe system update
The update introduces the transition from L2OutputOracle to a new system that includes OptimismPortal and DisputeGameFactory. L2OutputOracle, previously essential to the proposer’s role in storing L2 state output proposals, will be completely removed. Instead, developers will need to use a disputed game’s rootClaim to prove withdrawals during the first step of the two-step withdrawal process.
The OptimismPortal contract will see minor changes as it now references the DisputeGameFactory contract instead of L2OutputOracle. Developers should now search for recent DisputeGame contracts with the appropriate game type via OptimismPortal to demonstrate withdrawals. This change improves the security and decentralization of the withdrawal process, but requires developers to update their client code accordingly.
Impact on bridges and centralized interchanges
The transition to Fault Proof requires updates in the withdrawal management logic. Most teams leveraging the Optimism SDK or Viem will need to update their software versions prior to the release of Sepolia. The Optimism SDK, for example, requires an update to version 3.2.0 or later, which maintains API compatibility and automatically integrates new logic once the Fault Proof update is detected.
For those using Viem, the latest version breaks the API, requiring the use of an experimental decorator that supports error proofing. Once the error proofing is integrated on the Mainnet, a move to the stable API will be recommended.
Monitoring system changes
The Recall Monitoring and Dispute Monitoring services have been updated to accommodate the new fail-safe system. The Withdrawal Monitor service, central to the two-step withdrawal system, has become slightly slower to start but more reliable and compatible with a wider range of infrastructures. It remains fully backwards compatible with existing systems.
The Dispute Monitor service, however, will replace the current Fault Monitor to detect invalid output proposals. Teams currently using Fault Monitor will need to switch to the new service and update their alerting systems to remain compliant with the new update.
Next steps for developers and operators
Optimism developers and network operators are advised to familiarize themselves with the upcoming changes by reviewing the detailed documentation provided by Optimism. This includes understanding the three main components of the Fault Proof System (Cannon FPVM and Mips.sol) and preparing the relevant systems for the transition.
The Fault Proof updates are scheduled to launch on the testnet on March 19, 2024. It is critical that all parties involved prepare their systems in advance to ensure seamless integration with the new protocol and avoid any disruption to their operations.
Optimism continues to provide developer support for those experiencing difficulties during the transition. Proactive efforts and detailed documentation reflect Optimism’s commitment to maintaining a robust, developer-friendly ecosystem.
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