News 
December 17, 2024 
3 min. 
Avalanche, a layer-1 blockchain launched in 2020 and now the tenth-largest by total value locked (TVL), rolled out its long-awaited Avalanche9000 upgrade on Monday. This marks the network’s most significant technical overhaul so far.
The changes have been in the works for months, bringing features designed to reduce costs for transactions, running validators, and building apps on the platform.
Avalanche’s leadership told CoinDesk that the upgrade is part of their effort to attract developers. They aim to encourage the creation of custom blockchains, called subnets or “L1s,” using Avalanche’s tech.
Known as the Etna upgrade, the overhaul includes seven improvement proposals. Two of the most impactful ones are ACP-77 and ACP-125.
Deep Dive Into Avalanche ACP-77 and ACP-125
ACP-77 introduces a new type of validator, making it easier and cheaper for users to launch their own subnets. This change is expected to drive more participation in creating Avalanche-based networks.
ACP-125 reduces the base fee on Avalanche’s smart contract network, the C-chain, from 25 nAVAX (about $0.00000098) to 1 nAVAX ($0.00000004). This adjustment makes computing on the network more affordable. To clarify, one nAVAX is one-billionth of an AVAX. Avalanche also operates two other main chains: the P-chain, for staking AVAX and running validators, and the X-chain, for transferring funds.
Ahead of the upgrade, the Avalanche Foundation revealed it had raised $250 million in a token sale. The funding round was led by Galaxy Digital, Dragonfly, and ParaFi Capital.
How can you make money with AVAX?
Avalanche runs on a proof-of-stake system. This means AVAX holders can earn rewards by staking their tokens. Staking involves locking your AVAX in a compatible wallet and helping validate transactions on the network. It’s a way to earn passive income while supporting the blockchain.
Can AVAX reach $1,000?
Reaching $1,000 is a bold prediction and highly speculative. However, it’s not completely out of the question if the right conditions align. Factors like widespread adoption, increased utility, and favorable market trends would need to come into play.
