{"id":"ethereum-glamsterdam-upgrade","title":"Ethereum Glamsterdam Upgrade","content":"**Glamsterdam** is an upcoming major network upgrade for the [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain), designed to enhance its scalability, security, and sustainability. It is the proposed Execution Layer (EL) upgrade following the Fusaka upgrade, focusing on [gas](https://iq.wiki/wiki/gas) optimizations and protocol-level efficiency improvements. The name \"Glamsterdam\" is derived from combining the star Gloas with Amsterdam, the city where a recent Devconnect event took place. [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-3imVvYHRKv)\n\n## Overview\n\nGlamsterdam represents a crucial phase in [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum)'s ongoing evolution, aiming to address persistent challenges such as network scalability and high [transaction fees](https://iq.wiki/wiki/transaction-fee). This upgrade is part of a broader roadmap that includes previous milestones like the [Pectra](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum-pectra-upgrade) and [Fusaka](https://iq.wiki/wiki/fusaka) upgrades, all contributing to Ethereum's long-term vision as a global computing platform. The [Ethereum Foundation](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum-foundation-ef) has reorganized its research and development division into \"Protocol,\" a leaner and more focused entity led by veterans like Tim Beiko and Ansgar Dietrichs. This reorganization prioritizes scaling the [Layer 1](https://iq.wiki/wiki/layer-1) (L1), expanding blobspace, and improving user experience (UX), mandates that directly align with the anticipated priorities of Glamsterdam.\n\n$$widget0 [YOUTUBE@VID](https://youtube.com/watch?v=Hfz4xubm6kc)$$\n\nThe development approach for Glamsterdam emphasizes stability and thorough testing, reflecting the iterative nature of [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) development. This commitment ensures that new features are robust and well-integrated into the network's broader roadmap. The successful implementation of Glamsterdam is expected to significantly impact the entire [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) ecosystem, benefiting investors through enhanced network efficiency, developers through new functionalities and tools, and users through a more [stable](https://iq.wiki/wiki/stable), secure, and cost-effective experience. [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-LOWNMso5Cb) [\\[3\\]](#cite-id-rfAZoUE0K3) [\\[7\\]](#cite-id-RPBM022umu)\n\n## Naming Convention\n\n[Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) network upgrades traditionally derive their names from various sources, often combining a star name for the Consensus Layer (CL) upgrade with a city name for the Execution Layer (EL) upgrade. Historically, [Devcon](https://iq.wiki/wiki/devcon) cities were used for naming upgrades. However, with Devcon becoming a biennial event, the use of Devconnect city names, such as Amsterdam, has been adopted for annual upgrades. For Glamsterdam, the name combines \"Gloas,\" a G-star, with \"Amsterdam,\" the city that hosted a recent Devconnect event. This naming convention is part of a Meta [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) Improvement Proposal (EIP-7773: [Hardfork](https://iq.wiki/wiki/hard-fork) Meta - Amsterdam). [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-3imVvYHRKv)\n\n## Development Roadmap\n\nThe Glamsterdam upgrade is positioned as the successor to the [Fusaka](https://iq.wiki/wiki/fusaka) upgrade, which is tentatively scheduled for [mainnet](https://iq.wiki/wiki/mainnet) deployment in early November 2025. [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) core developers have outlined a detailed roadmap for Glamsterdam, encompassing several critical phases from feature selection to [mainnet](https://iq.wiki/wiki/mainnet) activation. This structured approach aims to ensure a smooth and secure transition for the network. [\\[4\\]](#cite-id-1otWM0BVGC) [\\[5\\]](#cite-id-lbk79tETJu)\n\n### Headliner Selection Phase\n\nThe initial phase involved the selection of \"headliner\" features to define Glamsterdam's primary focus. During the All Core Developers Consensus Call #162, [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) core developers officially selected EIP-7732, also known as enshrined Proposer-Builder Separation (ePBS), as the consensus layer headliner for the upgrade. This decision finalized the thematic direction of the upgrade, prioritizing protocol-level decentralization and censorship resistance over other candidates. [\\[4\\]](#cite-id-1otWM0BVGC) [\\[8\\]](#cite-id-ARj8e3zdv9)\n\n### Proposal Deadline and Specification Freeze\n\nTo prevent scope creep and ensure timely progress, a strict deadline was set for finalizing headliner choices and submitting regular [EIPs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum-improvement-proposal-eip). This cut-off, set for August 21, 2025, allowed developers to merge, audit, and document all included EIPs before the network enters the rigorous testing phase. This disciplined approach is crucial for managing the complexity of a major [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) upgrade. However, some developers have raised concerns that the intense focus on planning for Glamsterdam, which is not expected until 2026, might be diverting attention and resources from the upcoming Fusaka upgrade, potentially putting its Q4 2025 timeline at risk. [\\[4\\]](#cite-id-1otWM0BVGC) [\\[9\\]](#cite-id-jRI3wv4V9g)\n\n### Testing and Audit Windows\n\nThe rollout process for Glamsterdam will commence with the creation of dedicated client release branches in late 2025, mirroring the frozen specifications. In early 2026, one or more public testnets are planned to be launched. These [testnets](https://iq.wiki/wiki/testnet) are vital for identifying interoperability issues under realistic network conditions and for broader community participation, allowing [dApp](https://iq.wiki/wiki/decentralized-application) developers, [node](https://iq.wiki/wiki/node) operators, and researchers to test their applications and infrastructure against the new changes. Following the [testnet](https://iq.wiki/wiki/testnet) phase, two 30-day windows are allocated for security audits and community bug hunts, a model successfully employed during the [Fusaka](https://iq.wiki/wiki/fusaka) upgrade. This comprehensive testing and auditing process is designed to ensure the network's resilience and gather essential developer feedback before committing to [mainnet](https://iq.wiki/wiki/mainnet) activation. [\\[3\\]](#cite-id-rfAZoUE0K3) [\\[4\\]](#cite-id-1otWM0BVGC)\n\n## Key Features\n\nWhile still in its early design stages, Glamsterdam is expected to introduce several significant improvements to the [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) network. A primary focus of the upgrade is the transition from [Merkle trees](https://iq.wiki/wiki/merkle-tree) to Verkle trees. This change is anticipated to enhance how [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) stores data and validates transactions, paving the way for greater scalability and efficiency. Verkle trees are a critical component of Ethereum's \"The Verge\" phase, which aims to make state access more efficient and enable stateless [block](https://iq.wiki/wiki/block) verification.\n\nOther potential EIPs and features under consideration for Glamsterdam include:\n\n* **EIP-7702 (Set EOA account code for one transaction)**\n* **EIP-7932 (Add BLOBBASEFEE opcode)**\n* **EIP-7938 (BLOBHASH precompile)**\n* **EIP-7940 (SSZ Withdrawal Root)**\n* **EIP-7941 (SSZ Receipts Root)**\n* **EIP-7942 (SSZ Transactions Root)**\n* **EIP-7732 (ePBS - enshrined Proposer-Builder Separation):** Confirmed as the headliner feature for Glamsterdam, this EIP formalizes Proposer-Builder Separation (PBS) directly into the [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) protocol. The goal is to create a more trustless and censorship-resistant method for [block](https://iq.wiki/wiki/block) production by removing the dependency on external, trusted relays. By enshrining PBS, the network aims to reduce centralization pressures from Maximal Extractable Value (MEV), improve security, and create a more competitive and transparent market for [block](https://iq.wiki/wiki/block) builders. A key challenge this EIP addresses is the \"free option problem,\" where builders can submit a [block](https://iq.wiki/wiki/block) commitment but choose not to reveal the full [block](https://iq.wiki/wiki/block) if market conditions become unfavorable, harming network liveness. To counter this, cryptographic solutions are being explored, such as using threshold encryption to ensure a builder cannot back out after a commitment is signed. This involves encrypting [the block](https://iq.wiki/wiki/the-block) and requiring a set of parties to collaboratively [decrypt](https://iq.wiki/wiki/decrypt) it once the proposer accepts, with silent threshold encryption being a promising approach that avoids complex coordination. [\\[8\\]](#cite-id-ARj8e3zdv9) [\\[10\\]](#cite-id-fqVa6HrtNK)\n* **EIP-7805 (FOCIL - Fork-Choice Enforced Inclusion Lists):** Marked as 'Consider for Inclusion' (CFI) for the Glamsterdam upgrade, FOCIL is designed to introduce stronger user experience (UX) and enhance censorship resistance within the network. [\\[8\\]](#cite-id-ARj8e3zdv9)\n* **Gas Optimizations and Protocol-Level Efficiency:** Glamsterdam will focus on making [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) faster and cheaper to use, particularly for complex applications like Layer-2 rollups and zero-knowledge (ZK) technology.\n* **EIP-7907 (Contract Code Size Limits):** Although deferred from the Fusaka upgrade to prioritize stability, a revised version of EIP-7907, which addresses contract code size limits and introduces [gas](https://iq.wiki/wiki/gas) metering, is being considered for future implementation in Glamsterdam. This deferral highlights the developers' commitment to thorough testing over rushed deployment.\n* **Reduced Block Time:** [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) core developer Barnabé Monnot has proposed reducing the [block](https://iq.wiki/wiki/block) time from the current 12 seconds to 6 seconds. If approved, this change could significantly improve user experience and enhance the efficiency of decentralized finance (DeFi) applications. This proposal is being considered for rollout with the Glamsterdam hard [fork](https://iq.wiki/wiki/fork). [\\[1\\]](#cite-id-3imVvYHRKv) [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-LOWNMso5Cb) [\\[3\\]](#cite-id-rfAZoUE0K3) [\\[5\\]](#cite-id-lbk79tETJu) [\\[6\\]](#cite-id-M321njUVdJ) [\\[11\\]](#cite-id-BP8XkUEcvV)\n\n## Impact and Challenges\n\nThe successful implementation of Glamsterdam is expected to have a profound impact across the [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) ecosystem. For investors, successful upgrades can enhance network efficiency and utility, potentially increasing the long-term value proposition of [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) (ETH). Smooth transitions build confidence in the network's future, signaling a robust and well-managed platform. For developers, new [EIPs](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum-improvement-proposal-eip) introduce new functionalities, tools, and optimizations, enabling the creation of more sophisticated, efficient, and secure [decentralized applications](https://iq.wiki/wiki/decentralized-application). This fosters innovation and expands the possibilities within the [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) ecosystem. For users, while direct changes might not always be immediately apparent, upgrades contribute to a more stable, secure, and potentially faster and cheaper network experience over time. This translates to better dApp performance and reduced transaction costs, making the network more accessible and user-friendly.\n\nDespite the anticipated benefits, [blockchain](https://iq.wiki/wiki/blockchain) development, particularly for a network as large and complex as [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum), presents significant challenges. Coordinating thousands of developers globally, ensuring backward compatibility, and rigorously testing every change is a monumental task. The decision to defer EIP-7907 from [Fusaka](https://iq.wiki/wiki/fusaka) underscores this complexity, demonstrating the developers' commitment to caution and thoroughness over rushed implementation, prioritizing the network's integrity. A key challenge is also ensuring that as [Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) scales, it preserves its core ethos, including censorship resistance and privacy, which some developers have raised concerns about if not explicitly reaffirmed as strategic goals.\n\nTim Beiko, a project coordinator, stated, \"Protocol is now a more united and leaner organization with more focused teams…ensuring the EF’s resources are allocated toward maximal impact.\" He also noted, \"[Ethereum](https://iq.wiki/wiki/ethereum) stands at the edge of major breakthroughs…This may be our best shot at deploying not only our technology, but our values, at planetary scale.\" Ansgar Dietrichs added, \"For Glamsterdam…we will have to find some ways to continue the blob scaling…there might be some EL-side scaling opportunities too.\" These statements highlight the strategic importance and ambitious goals of the Glamsterdam upgrade. [\\[2\\]](#cite-id-LOWNMso5Cb) [\\[3\\]](#cite-id-rfAZoUE0K3)","summary":"Glamsterdam is an upcoming Ethereum hard fork, succeeding Fusaka, focused on enhancing scalability, efficiency, and potentially transitioning to Verkle trees. 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The Next Upgrade After Fusaka\",\"timestamp\":1753820060785},{\"id\":\"LOWNMso5Cb\",\"url\":\"https://blockworks.co/news/ethereum-glamsterdam-hard-fork\",\"description\":\"Ethereum refactors itself for Glamsterdam hard fork\",\"timestamp\":1753820060785},{\"id\":\"rfAZoUE0K3\",\"url\":\"https://www.ainvest.com/news/ethereum-news-today-ethereum-defers-eip-7907-glamsterdam-hard-fork-2507/\",\"description\":\"Ethereum defers EIP-7907 for Glamsterdam Hard Fork\",\"timestamp\":1753820060785},{\"id\":\"1otWM0BVGC\",\"url\":\"https://etherworld.co/2025/07/18/ethereum-sets-sights-on-glamsterdam-post-fusaka-rollout/\",\"description\":\"Ethereum Sets Sights on Glamsterdam Post-Fusaka Rollout\",\"timestamp\":1753820060785},{\"id\":\"lbk79tETJu\",\"url\":\"https://cointelegraph.com/news/ethereum-s-fusaka-fork-tipped-for-november-as-glamsterdam-comes-into-view\",\"description\":\"Ethereum’s Fusaka upgrade set for November, Glamsterdam planning next\",\"timestamp\":1753820060785},{\"id\":\"M321njUVdJ\",\"url\":\"https://cointelegraph.com/explained/vitalik-buterins-vision-for-ethereum-pectra-glamsterdam-and-beyond\",\"description\":\"Vitalik Buterin’s vision for Ethereum: Pectra, Glamsterdam and beyond\",\"timestamp\":1753820060785},{\"id\":\"RPBM022umu\",\"description\":\"Ethereum Glamsterdam Forks with Protocol Guild\\n\",\"timestamp\":1753821179553,\"url\":\"https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Hfz4xubm6kc\"},{\"id\":\"ARj8e3zdv9\",\"url\":\"https://etherworld.co/2025/08/11/eip-7732-epbs-selected-as-glamsterdam-headliner/\",\"description\":\"EIP-7732 (ePBS) Selected as Glamsterdam Headliner\",\"timestamp\":1758040332619},{\"id\":\"jRI3wv4V9g\",\"url\":\"https://cryptoslate.com/ethereums-q4-fusaka-upgrade-at-risk-as-developers-fixate-on-2026-glamsterdam-plans/\",\"description\":\"Concerns over Glamsterdam focus affecting Fusaka\",\"timestamp\":1758040504472},{\"id\":\"fqVa6HrtNK\",\"url\":\"https://blog.shutter.network/shutters-perspective-on-glamsterdam-and-a-cryptographic-fix-for-epbss-free-option-problem/\",\"description\":\"Cryptographic fix for ePBS's free option problem\",\"timestamp\":1758040504472},{\"id\":\"BP8XkUEcvV\",\"url\":\"https://etherworld.co/2025/08/25/expected-eips-in-glamsterdam-upgrade-execution-layer/\",\"description\":\"Expected EIPs in Glamsterdam Upgrade\",\"timestamp\":1758040504472}]"},{"id":"previous_cid","value":"\"https://ipfs.everipedia.org/ipfs/QmTMRdqVCZrrAJU27W8pa5z3EoPYBwa4CHxqFHkzZaZTLS\""},{"id":"commit-message","value":"\"docs: Update Glamsterdam article with ePBS as headliner and details on other considered EIPs.\""},{"id":"previous_cid","value":"QmTMRdqVCZrrAJU27W8pa5z3EoPYBwa4CHxqFHkzZaZTLS"}],"events":[{"id":"f1c287c2-feb7-4b4d-8dc6-c3bac2ecb0d3","date":"2025-01","title":"Glamsterdam Name Proposed","type":"CREATED","description":"The name \"Glamsterdam\" was 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upgrade was set to avoid last-minute scope creep.","multiDateStart":null,"multiDateEnd":null},{"id":"f1c287c2-feb7-4b4d-8dc6-c3bac2ecb0d3","date":null,"title":"Testnet & Audit Windows","type":"MULTIDATE","description":"Public testnets and security audits for the Glamsterdam upgrade were scheduled to surface interoperability issues and provide resilience.","multiDateStart":"2026-01-01","multiDateEnd":"2026-06-30"},{"id":"f1c287c2-feb7-4b4d-8dc6-c3bac2ecb0d3","date":"2026-06","title":"Mainnet Activation Target","type":"DEFAULT","description":"The Glamsterdam hard fork was tentatively scheduled for mainnet activation in the first half of 2026.","multiDateStart":null,"multiDateEnd":null}],"user":{"id":"0x8af7a19a26d8fbc48defb35aefb15ec8c407f889"},"author":{"id":"0x8af7a19a26d8fbc48defb35aefb15ec8c407f889"},"language":"en","version":1,"linkedWikis":{"blockchains":["ethereum"],"founders":[],"speakers":[]}}