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LookIntoBitcoin, a platform tracking Lightning Network statistics, reveals that the network can now handle over $210 million in transfers. This is equivalent to approximately 4,980 Bitcoin (BTC). This is close to the record high of $223 million recorded on Dec. 6.
In July, the Lightning Network reached its peak capacity, allowing around 5,400 BTC transfers, and approached similar levels in November before a slight decline.
Since its establishment in early 2018, the Lightning Network's capacity has grown. Despite the stump in broader crypto market activity during the 2022 to 2023 bear market, the Layer 2 network maintains a consistent upward trend.
Faster and cheaper crypto transactions
According to Crypto.news, advocates argue that Lightning facilitates quicker and more cost-effective BTC transactions. This can potentially play a crucial role in fostering greater retail adoption of Bitcoin payments.
This is a massive step in promoting Bitcoin and crypto adoption, making it easier for users to transact with digital assets and ensuring a safe and secure platform. Although there are still some loopholes regarding the system, more government regulations will cover these areas and help remove doubts regarding the technology.
Advancement of blockchain technology
Detractors also counter that the Lightning Network remains complex and challenging for average users. According to Crypto Slate, they usually point out centralization risks due to its graph-based topology. Nonetheless, network capacity metrics underscore sustained activity from developers and users amid crypto sector challenges.
While the USD value of maximum Lightning transfers closely trails last year's peak, the steady uptrend suggests the increasing acceptance of Layer 2 scaling solutions for Bitcoin. With expanding adoption, the decentralized payment network seems poised to challenge its all-time high transfer capacity in the coming year.
With this, it is safe to say that more people will embrace cryptocurrencies with the help of the Bitcoin Lightning Network. Once this happens, crypto and blockchain technology, in general, will enter mainstream usage, and token values will surely skyrocket.
Photo: Karolina Grabowska/Pexels
