Google Cloud has officially joined Polygon’s Proof-of-Stake (PoS) network as one of its decentralized validators.
This significant development, announced on September 29, highlights Google’s commitment to enhancing blockchain security through its well-established reputation in various security-related domains.
As part of this collaboration, Google will be among the 100+ validators responsible for securing the blockchain. Polygon is set to leverage Google’s robust infrastructure, the same infrastructure that powers popular services like Gmail and YouTube. This move aims to boost user confidence in Polygon’s Ethereum layer 2 solution as competition in this space intensifies.
In an official statement, it was expressed, “The same infrastructure used to power @YouTube and @gmail is now helping to secure the fast, low-cost, Ethereum-for-all Polygon protocol.” This announcement was confirmed by Google Cloud Singapore’s official X (Twitter) account, emphasizing Google’s role in enhancing the network’s security, governance, and decentralization alongside other validators.
Google Cloud’s involvement as a validator in the Polygon PoS network extends beyond just security. They will actively participate in network governance, operate nodes, and stake MATIC tokens, further solidifying their commitment to the blockchain ecosystem.
This strategic collaboration with Polygon is part of Google’s broader engagement in the blockchain space, where it has been forming key partnerships in recent months. In April, Google unveiled its cloud services support for Polygon’s zkEVM scaling solution, offered assistance for app chains, and provided a $200,000 Google Cloud credit fund for startups backed by Polygon.
Google Cloud’s services include node engine provisioning and one-click deployment of nodes, contributing to the acceleration of core Polygon protocols with enterprise-grade infrastructure and tools.
It’s worth noting that Google’s interest in distributed ledger technology (DLT) goes beyond Polygon, as the company has also initiated partnerships with Tezos, Solana, and Ronin Network, among others.
Additionally, Google recently expanded its blockchain services on BigQuery, incorporating 11 new networks in addition to existing ones like Bitcoin, Bitcoin Cash, and Ethereum Classic. This expansion aims to provide developers with quicker access to public data across multiple blockchain networks, facilitating the development of decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts.
Polygon’s efforts to enhance scalability align with the competitive landscape, including developments in the Ethereum ecosystem like the launch of the Holesky testnet. Polygon 2.0, a significant milestone, focuses on creating a scalable internet value layer. It supports multiple chains, enabling cross-chain transactions and liquidity while maintaining robust network security and scalability.
“Polygon 2.0 is a network of ZK-powered L2 chains, unified via a novel cross-chain coordination protocol. For a user, the entire network will feel like using a single chain.”