A Layer 2 blockchain (like Base), often called an L2, is a secondary framework or protocol built on top of an existing Layer 1 blockchain (like Ethereum) to improve scalability and efficiency. Layer 2 solutions handle transactions off the main chain (Layer 1) and then report back to it, reducing congestion and lowering transaction fees.

These networks aim to provide faster and cheaper transactions while still benefiting from the security and decentralization of the underlying Layer 1 blockchain. Popular examples of Layer 2 solutions include Optimistic Rollups, ZK-Rollups, and state channels.