Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin said on January 8 that the network should aim to evolve into an open, decentralized foundation similar to Linux, positioning Ethereum as long-term infrastructure for global society rather than a conventional tech platform.
One metaphor for Ethereum is BitTorrent, and how that p2p network combines decentralization and mass scale. Ethereum's goal is to do the same thing but with consensus.
Another metaphor for Ethereum is Linux.
* Linux is free and open source software, and does not compromise on…
— vitalik.eth (@VitalikButerin) January 8, 2026
Ethereum’s Vision: A Linux-Style Foundation for Civilization
Buterin argued that Ethereum should model itself after the architectural philosophy of Linux and BitTorrent, which have delivered value to billions of individuals and organizations without compromising on open-source principles or decentralization.
He emphasized that Ethereum’s Layer 1 must function as a neutral foundation for finance and digital infrastructure, enabling individuals and institutions to operate autonomously while reducing reliance on intermediaries.
According to Buterin, Ethereum should ultimately serve as “civilization infrastructure”, which is a system capable of continuing to run applications without fraud, censorship, or third-party control, even if its original developers were to disappear.
Key Technical Milestones Achieved in 2025
Buterin also highlighted several major technical milestones achieved in 2025, including:
Higher gas limits
Increased blob capacity
Significant improvements in node software quality
He pointed in particular to the introduction of PeerDAS and ZK-EVM, which he said allow Ethereum to achieve decentralization, consensus security, and high bandwidth simultaneously.
Describing this as the resolution of the long-standing “blockchain trilemma,” Buterin called these developments the culmination of more than a decade of research and engineering.
Pushing for True Decentralization and Usability
Despite progress, Buterin expressed concern that many applications built on decentralized protocols still depend heavily on centralized services, a trend he warned could undermine Ethereum’s core principles.
He stressed that for Ethereum to succeed as global infrastructure, true decentralization must exist at both the blockchain layer and the application layer.
One proposed solution is decentralized block construction, which would prevent transaction blocks from being formed in a single location and reduce the risk of centralized interference.
Buterin framed Ethereum’s evolution as a rebellion against today’s centralized, subscription-based internet, with the goal of underpinning essential digital services such as finance and identity.
Like Linux, which achieves flexibility through developer-driven modifications, Ethereum leverages Layer 2 scaling to offer diverse implementation options, which is one of the ecosystem’s key strengths.
Still, Buterin acknowledged that challenges remain. Building a truly open “world computer” as the backbone of a free and open internet will require continued effort and innovation.
