List of the Top 3 Layer 1 Protocols for Trust Domains in 2025

Ethereum stands as a community-centric platform that underpins the cryptocurrency ether (ETH) alongside a diverse array of decentralized applications. This cutting-edge technology supports not only digital currency transactions but also facilitates global payments and a wide range of applications. Through the power of collaboration, the community has nurtured a dynamic digital economy, opening up new avenues for creators to monetize their work online and much more. With accessibility for anyone possessing an internet connection, Ethereum dismantles obstacles for billions who are either unbanked or encounter limitations on their financial dealings. Its decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystem operates tirelessly and impartially, enabling users to send, receive, borrow, earn interest, and even stream funds across the globe. Unlike conventional internet services that often demand compromises on personal data privacy, Ethereum prioritizes transparency as a core tenet—requiring only a wallet for participation. By staking your ETH, you have the opportunity to act as a validator, playing a crucial role in safeguarding and upholding the integrity of this revolutionary platform. Consequently, Ethereum not only empowers individuals but also promotes a more inclusive financial landscape for all, inspiring innovation and creativity in the digital realm. As the platform evolves, it continues to attract a diverse range of participants eager to explore its limitless potential.

The BNB Smart Chain (BSC), launched by Binance, is a blockchain designed to support decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts. Operating in conjunction with Binance Chain, it combines high-speed transaction capabilities with the flexibility of smart contracts that are compatible with Ethereum. By employing a Proof-of-Staked-Authority (PoSA) consensus mechanism, BSC enhances both scalability and efficiency while keeping transaction costs low. Its alignment with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) simplifies the process for developers looking to migrate dApps and projects from the Ethereum network. Consequently, BSC has seen considerable growth in the decentralized finance (DeFi), gaming, and NFT sectors, offering users a fast, affordable, and secure platform for blockchain innovations. Additionally, the expanding community and ecosystem not only draw in cutting-edge projects but also foster greater user participation and interaction. This ongoing evolution signifies BSC's pivotal role in shaping the future of decentralized technologies.

Conflux serves as a vital link connecting creators, communities, and marketplaces across various borders and protocols. Its cutting-edge Tree-Graph consensus algorithm utilizes parallel processing to efficiently manage blocks and transactions, significantly minimizing confirmation times while increasing transactions per second (TPS). By implementing a thoroughly vetted Proof of Work (PoW) consensus, Conflux guarantees enhanced security and protects against reentrancy attacks at the protocol level. The platform also includes ShuttleFlow, a remarkably swift cross-chain asset bridge that facilitates seamless asset transfers among different protocols. Moreover, the Fee Sponsorship Mechanism allows individuals without a wallet balance to engage in blockchain activities, as sponsors can cover either partial or full transaction fees to aid in onboarding new users. To promote user interaction further, the built-in staking feature enables the development of innovative decentralized finance (DeFi) applications, and currently, staked tokens yield an annualized interest rate of 4%, sourced from additional token issuance. This comprehensive ecosystem not only empowers users but also cultivates a thriving environment for innovation across the blockchain realm, fostering a collaborative atmosphere that encourages diverse project development.