PAW Documentation

EVM and Non-EVM Chains

EVM and Non-EVM Chains

Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), is a run time environment for executing smart contracts in a secure and decentralized manner across the Ethereum network. In essence it is an abstract layer between a physical machine (a node) and the smart contract code itself, allowing a platform for developers to build on Ethereum.

What are EVM compatible Chains?

EVM-compatible blockchains are those that can run smart contracts and Decentralized Applications (dApps) that are designed for the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). This compatibility means they can execute the same code written to Ethereum, allowing for interoperability of dApps across different blockchain platforms.

Benefits of EVM compatible chains

       
  • Familiarity for developers: There are many developers already skilled for creating dApps on Ethereum. EVM compatibility is attractive as it allows development without needing to learn a new programming language or environment.
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  • Interoperability: EVM compatibility allows for easier movement and interaction of applications and assets across different blockchains and enhances the ecosystem's utility.
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  • Proven tech: EVM is a time tested, safe environment and platform making it a reliable standard for blockchains to emulate for smart contract functionality.
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  • Low entry for developers: EVM provides a familiar and well-documented environment based on the Ethereum standards, making it easier for new developers to start developing dApps and acquire the existing Web3 user base.

What are Non-EVM compatible chains?

Non-EVM chains, are blockchains that do not adhere to the standards and specifications set by Ethereum's EVM for smart contracts and decentralized applications. They use different programming languages, consensus mechanisms or architecture.

Benefits of Non-EVM compatible chains

       
  • Innovation: Non-EVM blockchains can diverge from Ethereum's standards. Innovating and developing unique features or optimizations such as scalability, energy efficiency, or improved security.
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  • Diversification: These blockchains contribute towards a more diverse ecosystem by providing alternatives to Ethereum's approach, beneficial for certain applications.
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  • Custom programming language and environments: These blockchains usually have their own programming language and environment, allowing for advantages such as improved security, ease of use, or tailored functionality for their architecture.

What category does PAW Chain fall under?

PAW Chain started as a L1 - L2 - L3 system, however our development evolution has now architected the L3 to incorporate everything that the L1/L2 does within a single component. As a result, PAW Chain is not an EVM chain by design, the deployment and management of smart contracts will be executed differently long-term. Our PAW Chain developers are coding a custom contract deployer for the L3, to be released later this year, enabling smart contract deployment, dApp creation, and other utilities to be developed directly on the L3. In the interim, PAW Chain's EVM-based L1 will be the smart contract deployment mechanism and uses bi-directional communication flows with the L3 to establish the token data within the L3 triple-ledger system.

The L3 comprises our bespoke ledger system which operates outside the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) framework. This means it isn't bound by EVM's constraints. Nonetheless, it's engineered to be EVM-compatible, enabling us to link with EVM chains and support quick, effective, and scalable cross-chain interoperability.