Cardano has recently implemented a significant upgrade to its Hydra Head scaling solution, marking a key step towards enhancing network transactions.

This development comes as the network approaches the highly anticipated Chang hard fork.

Hydra Upgrade Brings Key Changes Ahead of Chang Hard Fork

On August 9, Cardano introduced version 0.18.0 of its Hydra Head scaling solution. This update aims to improve transaction efficiency and address withdrawal delays.

Sebastian Nagel, a Cardano developer, highlighted a key feature that will allow users to withdraw funds from an open head without needing to close it. The update also includes documentation enhancements and fixes for internal wallet fee calculations.

“Major feature: withdrawing funds from an open head without needing to close Also fixes to ready up for Conway – make sure to update,” Nagel stated.

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Hydra is a layer2 scaling solution designed to improve scalability on the Cardano blockchain. Despite past concerns about the project’s progress, this upgrade showcases Cardano’s ongoing commitment to Hydra. It also aligns with founder Charles Hoskinson’s consistent assurances regarding the project’s development.

This Hydra upgrade aligns with the forthcoming Chang hard fork, which aims to transition Cardano into a fully decentralized blockchain. According to Hoskinson, this upgrade represents a historic milestone for both Cardano and the broader blockchain industry. He envisions Cardano transitioning into a global decentralized network with advanced governance, annual budgets, and a community-driven approach.

The upgrade will be completed once 70% of Stake Pool Operators (SPOs) have adopted Node Version 9.1. As of August 8, TapTools reported that 69% of SPOs have transitioned to the Node. However, Cardanoscan data pegs the percentage of SPOs ready for the upgrade at approximately 65%, with Bitfinex being the first major crypto exchange to support the update.

Read more: Who Is Charles Hoskinson, the Founder of Cardano?

Meanwhile, market analysts pointed out that the combination of the Hydra upgrade and the Chang hard fork will elevate Cardano’s position among rival networks.

“After Chang Hard Fork and Hydra, Cardano will be unstoppable. Highest decentralization and unlimited transaction speed while also having one of the highest security,” Cardano advocate Ssebi stated.