Cardano plans to name 2026 hard fork in honor of DRep Max van Rossem
Cryptopolitan reports that the group responsible for the Cardano hard fork has put forth a suggestion to name the 2026 hard fork update as protocol version 11 “van Rossem,” named after DRep Max van Rossem. Van Rossem has been instrumental in advancing blockchain governance, and this upgrade aims to enhance node security, ledger consistency, and the performance of Plutus, all while avoiding the need to shift to a new ledger era. Starting on January 13 and continuing until February 14, the community has the opportunity to participate in the voting process. Those interested in voting must have a minimum stake of 100,000 ADA.
The proposed upgrade, named in honor of van Rossem, showcases the recognition of his contributions to the blockchain landscape. By improving node security, the upgrade seeks to enhance the overall security of the Cardano network, ensuring that transactions remain secure and protected. Additionally, the focus on ledger consistency aims to maintain the integrity of the blockchain, ensuring that all transactions are recorded accurately and verifiably.
Enhancing the performance of Plutus is another key aspect of the proposed upgrade. Plutus plays a crucial role in the functionality of the Cardano network, particularly in enabling smart contracts. By improving Plutus performance, the upgrade aims to optimize the execution of smart contracts on the network, ultimately enhancing the user experience and enabling a more efficient ecosystem.
It is important to note that despite the significant enhancements proposed in this upgrade, there will be no transition to a new ledger era. This ensures continuity and stability within the Cardano network, minimizing disruptions and allowing for a seamless integration of the new features and improvements. The decision to avoid a new ledger era reflects a strategic approach to maintaining the existing framework while introducing innovative upgrades to enhance the platform.
Community involvement and engagement are central to the voting process for the proposed upgrade. By allowing users to participate in the decision-making process, Cardano demonstrates its commitment to decentralized governance and inclusivity. The requirement of staking at least 100,000 ADA to participate in the vote ensures that those with a vested interest in the network have a say in shaping its future direction.
Overall, the proposed upgrade to protocol version 11 “van Rossem” represents a significant milestone for Cardano. By recognizing the contributions of DRep Max van Rossem and integrating key enhancements to node security, ledger consistency, and Plutus performance, this upgrade paves the way for a more secure, efficient, and resilient blockchain network. The community voting process underscores the decentralized nature of Cardano’s governance model, empowering users to participate in shaping the future of the network.

