Introducing Kernels

Execution Sharding refers to the approach of dividing and distributing the execution of smart contracts across multiple blockchain networks, or "shards", to enhance scalability and efficiency in blockchain systems. Instead of executing every transaction on a single chain, execution sharding allows transactions and smart contract states to be distributed across multiple chains, each handling a portion of the overall workload.

Execution sharding is pivotal for Ethereum’s scalability. The KRNL Protocol integrates permissionless and composable kernels (execution shards) across multiple networks directly into the Ethereum transaction lifecycle.

KRNL optimizes resources to provide a secure and efficient execution environment for smart contracts, creating a distributed runtime that determines transaction outcomes based on the selected kernels across diverse environments. KRNL’s open framework enhances modularity, optimizes resources, and accelerates deployment, ultimately improving dApp responsiveness and reducing time-to-market.

Within the KRNL Protocol, kernels represent execution shards and transform both on-chain and off-chain functions into modular units with the following attributes:

• Statelessness: Kernels maintain no intrinsic state, ensuring flexibility and easy migration across environments.

• Lightweight Design: Kernels minimize computational overhead, promoting efficient execution.

• Resilience: Kernels are designed to withstand operational failures, ensuring reliable performance.

• Independent Deployability: Kernels can be deployed across various environments without dependency.

The defining features of kernels include:

• Infrastructure Agnostic: Kernels are not tied to specific infrastructures; they can migrate across environments as needed.

• Enhanced Modularity and Composability: By deconstructing applications into discrete kernels, modularity is improved, enabling permissionless sharing across multiple applications.

Accelerated Deployment: Simplified deployment processes enhance dApp responsiveness and reduce time-to-market.