Published on: 2021-03-08T14:13:44+00:00
There is an ongoing debate among Bitcoin developers about the implementation of Taproot and how to activate it. One proposed solution is the "speedy trial" approach, which involves signaling before activation to establish community consensus. Another suggestion is to activate Taproot via a traditional flag day, allowing miners to signal uptake for taproot rules prior to activation. However, there are concerns about client compatibility and the potential for miners to generate invalid blocks. Discussions also revolve around the role of mandatory signaling versus a flag day and the need for careful planning and consideration when making changes to the Bitcoin network.The bitcoin-dev mailing list recently discussed the possibility of a mandatory signaling flag day for Taproot activation. Some members believe that a flag day would be simpler and easier to communicate than using activation parameters based on the percentage of upgraded nodes. However, there are concerns about network disruption and compatibility with early activation. The debate also touches on the BIP-8 protocol and whether early activation or a fixed activation date would be preferable.Despite these discussions, there is general agreement that a flag day might be the best option at this time. It is suggested that LOT=true could allow for compatibility with early activation if desired. Matt Corallo proposed a flag day activation for Taproot, but Luke Dashjr disagreed, emphasizing the importance of upgraded nodes across the network for successful activation. Dashjr also highlighted the risks of a LOT=False deployment and the complications it brings to the BIP 8 approach.Another proposal suggested activating Taproot through a traditional flag day with a set date in August 2022. However, Dashjr argued that this approach still has issues similar to BIP149, as it does not clearly indicate activation. He emphasized the need for high node-level adoption and warned against demanding alternative consensus rules or configuration flags.The ongoing debate and lack of consensus have likely delayed the release of Taproot activation. One suggestion to maintain consensus is to use a flag-day activation that meets certain criteria. The risk of hashpower loss can be mitigated by seeking commitment prior to release. Although a flag day activation has its own risks, it may be worth considering to avoid prolonged debate and delay.It is noted that Taproot activation has been in progress for a while, with no urgency until recently. Those seeking activation for market reasons should look forward to the event in 2022. Overall, the best course of action for Taproot activation is still under debate, considering factors such as network disruption, compatibility, and consensus among nodes.
Updated on: 2023-08-02T03:16:51.206553+00:00