Google Cloud Joins EigenLayer Mainnet as Node Operator in Blockchain Development Progress
Google Cloud Makes Strides in Blockchain Development by Joining EigenLayer’s Mainnet
Google Cloud has taken a significant step forward in its blockchain development by becoming a node operator on EigenLayer’s mainnet. This move, announced by Sam Padilla, Google Cloud’s Web3 product manager, showcases the company’s proactive approach in the Web3 domain.
Padilla shared his excitement about the development on his X account, stating, “I’m excited to share that the @googlecloud Eigen Layer mainnet operator is up and running! Congrats to the @eigenlayer team on a successful mainnet launch. I’m excited for what’s coming!”
EigenLayer’s innovative framework allows for Ethereum staking across multiple platforms, providing stakers with the opportunity to engage with the network. Google Cloud’s decision to operate as a mainnet node after participating in EigenLayer’s testnet since November 2023 demonstrates its commitment to enhancing restaking protocols.
Transitioning from EigenLayer’s “Operator Working Group” position to a key network operator, Google Cloud has shown a bold approach in the Web3 space since establishing its blockchain division in early 2022. The company has launched the Blockchain Node Engine, initiated a Web3 startup program, and formed partnerships with protocols like Polygon and LayerZero.
EigenLayer has taken steps to maintain decentralization through its operator registry in response to concerns about centralization within cloud services. Google Cloud’s involvement has been viewed positively, enhancing the protocol’s resilience and inclusivity.
EigenLayer’s mainnet addresses data availability concerns through EigenDA. While the launch faced setbacks such as the absence of slashing mechanisms, it signifies a significant advancement toward protocol maturity.
EigenLayer clarified the development, stating, “We are allowing the EigenLayer marketplace to develop and stabilize before introducing in-protocol payments and slashing to the mainnet later this year.”
With EigenLayer’s total value locked (TVL) surpassing $13.33 billion, it has become the second-largest DeFi protocol. The DeFi space has seen growth, with a TVL exceeding $3.82 billion, driven by the emergence of liquid restaking tokens (LRTs) led by EtherFi.
Venture capital is also shifting focus to these blockchain trends, with Andreessen Horowitz investing $100 million in EigenLayer in February. Binance Labs’ support of Renzo, a liquid restaking protocol with a TVL nearing $3 billion, highlights the sector’s potential for growth.
