Ethereum Complexity Sparks Warning From Vitalik Buterin

Ethereum co-founder Vitalik Buterin has raised concerns about the growing complexity of the Ethereum network. In a post shared on January 18, 2026, he warned that the blockchain’s expanding codebase could threaten one of its core values: trustlessness.

Trustlessness means that users do not need to depend on a small group of experts to understand or verify how the system works. According to Buterin, Ethereum is slowly moving away from that ideal.

LATEST: ⚡ Vitalik Buterin says Ethereum's growing code complexity threatens trustlessness, calling for "garbage collection" processes to simplify the protocol and reduce reliance on technical experts. pic.twitter.com/bxIkvt5pi7

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Why Ethereum Complexity Is a Problem

Buterin explained that Ethereum’s complexity has grown much bigger over the years. What once aimed to be simple now contains hundreds of thousands of lines of code. As a result, fewer people can fully understand how the protocol works.

Because of this, users and developers may start depending on a small group of technical experts. Buterin warned that this dependence weakens decentralization. If only a few people understand the system, trust shifts from the code to individuals.

Vitalik Calls for Cleanup

To fix this issue, Buterin suggested introducing regular “garbage collection” processes. In simple terms, this means removing old, unused or unnecessary features from the protocol.

He believes that Ethereum should focus on keeping the system clean. By doing so, the network can be easier to understand and safer to use. He also stressed that fewer lines of code often mean fewer bugs and risks.

In addition, Buterin said Ethereum should avoid overly complex cryptography when possible. He argued that simpler tools help protect user independence and long-term security.

Crypto Community Reaction

Many developers and community members supported Buterin’s message. They agreed that simplification could make Ethereum more accessible to new developers.

Others said that a simpler protocol would make Ethereum’s future stronger. Fewer barriers mean more people can build, verify, and participate without needing deep technical knowledge.

Impact on Ethereum Users

Ethereum is one of the world’s largest blockchain networks. Thus, decisions about its design affect millions of users.

Buterin’s warning highlights a key challenge facing growing blockchains. As systems evolve, they must balance innovation with simplicity. For Ethereum, staying understandable may be just as important as adding new features.