🕸️The Problem

In the current landscape of decentralized applications (dApps), a critical yet often overlooked challenge lies in the over-concentration of nodes on major cloud service providers. More than two-thirds of nodes on prominent blockchain networks like Ethereum and Solana are hosted on just three major cloud platforms — AWS, Hetzner, and OVH. This centralized concentration poses a significant risk, as any potential government intervention or regulatory measures could influence and control the RPC layer, essentially dictating how users interact with the entire web3 ecosystem.

% Distribution of nodes hosted on ETH and SOL

Key Problems and Challenges:

Security Vulnerabilities

Relying on centralized infrastructure introduces security vulnerabilities to the Network-as-a-Service (NaaS) platforms. A single point of failure in the centralized setup can compromise the integrity and availability of the entire platform. This susceptibility exposes users to potential security threats, risking the compromise of sensitive data and disrupting dApp functionality.

High Costs

Centralized node infrastructure comes with substantial costs, as providers charge fees for hosting and maintaining nodes. This cost burden is transferred to Dapp developers and end-users, hindering the accessibility and scalability of the decentralized ecosystem. Viper Network aims to address this challenge by providing a more cost-effective and scalable alternative.

Control and Censorship Risks

Dependence on centralized infrastructure introduces the risk of control and censorship by the infrastructure provider. This centralized control goes against the principles of decentralization, as certain applications or transactions may be subject to restrictions or censorship. Viper Network mitigates this risk by offering a decentralized alternative that prioritizes user autonomy.

Lack of Transparency

Centralized node infrastructure providers may lack transparency and auditability in their services. The opaque nature of their operations and decision-making processes undermines trust within the decentralized ecosystem. Viper Network emphasizes transparency, providing auditable services that foster trust and contribute to the growth of the decentralized web3 environment.