Horizen, a blockchain project that focuses on privacy and decentralized applications (Dapps), has officially launched its mainnet on Base, a Layer 2 network built on Ethereum. This move marks an important step in the project’s long-term growth.
The launch, which happened on December 9, comes as interest in privacy-focused cryptocurrencies is rising.
Horizen Transitions to Layer Three to Strengthen Network
The mainnet launch is part of Horizen’s shift from a Layer One blockchain to a Layer Three application chain. This transition started in February when Horizen’s decentralized organization decided to retire the old blockchain.
The project executives noted that most of the original proof-of-work system is not moving to the new platform. Nevertheless, this move has successfully revived Horizen’s community and strengthened its brand.
Horizen’s history shows how it adapts and evolves. It began in 2017 as ZenCash and rebranded in 2018. The project introduced the Zendoo sidechain framework in 2020 and launched its EVM sidechain, EON, in 2023.
Each step has made the network more flexible and capable, ready to work with modern blockchain systems like Base. Horizen is now focusing on practical privacy solutions for today’s developers and users.
Horizen to Launch $100M Developer Program
The launch on Base allows Horizen to bring privacy features into the Ethereum-based layer 2 network supported by Coinbase.
Horizen Labs has announced a five-year, 100 million ZEN program to fund developers building applications, from private financial services to social and gaming projects.
The network uses a system called selective disclosure, which makes privacy optional while still following legal rules. This technology balances user anonymity with compliance.
This approach comes after past regulatory challenges. In 2023, Horizen stopped supporting shielded transactions. This came after some exchanges including Huobi delisted privacy coins the previous year.
Now, the project has relaunched its ZEN token on decentralized platforms like Aerodrome and Uniswap. The token is also available on major exchanges such as Binance, Coinbase, ByBit, OKX, and Bitget.
Horizen said future upgrades will include a Confidential Compute Environment using trusted execution technologies. This will enable private transactions and region-specific data controls for developers.
Horizen Focuses on Key Features with Layer Three Move
Moving to a Layer Three system lets Horizen Labs focus on important features instead of building all the infrastructure from scratch. The project has partnered with platforms like Caldera, LayerZero, Stork, and Den to support this effort.
Working with other platforms helps Horizen build faster and more efficiently, letting the team deliver useful privacy solutions sooner.
Horizen said choosing to launch on Base was both a strategic and community-focused decision. The team aimed for access to Coinbase’s ecosystem and support from its leadership.
By focusing on long-term growth, developer adoption, and following regulations, Horizen is building trust as a reliable privacy platform.