Scaling Blockchain Primitive
Subnets
Independent blockchain networks with custom rules and validators
What are Subnets?
Subnets (Subnetworks) are independent blockchain networks that can have their own rules, validators, and virtual machines while sharing security with a parent network. They enable horizontal scaling and customization.
How They Work
Architecture
- Primary Network: Main blockchain with core validators
- Subnet Creation: Deploy custom chain specifications
- Validator Set: Select validators for the subnet
- Custom VM: Define execution environment
- Interoperability: Cross-subnet communication
Key Components
- Independent consensus
- Custom tokenomics
- Configurable gas fees
- Private or public access
Use Cases
Gaming
- Dedicated throughput for games
- Custom gas tokens
- Low-latency transactions
Enterprise
- Permissioned access
- Compliance requirements
- Private transactions
DeFi
- High-frequency trading
- Custom fee structures
- Application-specific chains
Implementations
| Platform | Term | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Avalanche | Subnets | Original implementation |
| Cosmos | Zones | IBC-connected chains |
| Polkadot | Parachains | Shared security model |
| Polygon | Supernets | Enterprise focus |
Advantages
- Scalability: Horizontal expansion
- Customization: App-specific chains
- Isolation: Failures don’t affect other subnets
- Sovereignty: Independent governance
Considerations
- Validator recruitment
- Security bootstrapping
- Cross-subnet complexity
- Economic sustainability