Layer 3 is Revolutionizing the Future of Web3 Engagement and Blockchain Interaction

The cryptocurrency and blockchain space continues to evolve at an unprecedented pace, with new innovations emerging that fundamentally change how users interact with decentralized technologies. Among these groundbreaking developments, Layer 3 stands out as a transformative platform that bridges the gap between complex blockchain protocols and everyday users. Understanding what Layer 3 offers and how it functions is essential for anyone looking to navigate the modern crypto landscape effectively.

Understanding the Core Mission of Layer 3

Layer 3 represents a paradigm shift in how users discover, engage with, and benefit from blockchain projects. Unlike traditional cryptocurrency platforms that focus solely on trading or price tracking, Layer 3 creates an ecosystem where learning and earning converge seamlessly. The platform has established itself as a premier destination for crypto enthusiasts who want to explore new projects while being rewarded for their participation and attention.

At its foundation, Layer 3 operates on the principle that user attention and engagement have inherent value. In the traditional web model, platforms monetize user data and attention without providing direct compensation to users. Layer 3 flips this model by ensuring that users receive tangible rewards for completing quests, learning about new protocols, and actively participating in the blockchain ecosystem.

How Layer 3 Transforms User Onboarding in Crypto

One of the most significant challenges facing the cryptocurrency industry is user onboarding. Many potential users find blockchain technology intimidating, with complex interfaces, confusing terminology, and steep learning curves. Layer 3 addresses these barriers by gamifying the learning experience and making blockchain interaction accessible to newcomers and veterans alike.

Quest-Based Learning System

The Layer 3 platform introduces an innovative quest-based system that guides users through various blockchain activities. These quests range from simple tasks like connecting a wallet to more complex operations such as interacting with decentralized finance protocols or minting NFTs. Each quest completed on Layer 3 rewards users with experience points, tokens, or other valuable incentives.

This approach mirrors successful gamification strategies seen in other industries, but Layer 3 applies them uniquely to the blockchain space. Users progress through levels, unlock achievements, and build their on-chain reputation while simultaneously gaining practical experience with different protocols and applications.

Protocol Discovery and Exploration

Layer 3 serves as a discovery platform where users can find new and emerging blockchain projects. Rather than relying on social media hype or word-of-mouth recommendations, users can explore curated quests that introduce them to vetted protocols. This systematic approach to discovery helps users make more informed decisions about which projects deserve their attention and investment.

The Technical Infrastructure Behind Layer 3

Understanding the technical foundation of Layer 3 reveals why it has become such a powerful tool in the crypto ecosystem. The platform leverages smart contract technology to verify quest completion and distribute rewards automatically. This trustless verification system ensures that users receive their rewards promptly and without the need for manual intervention.

Cross-Chain Compatibility

Layer 3 recognizes that the blockchain ecosystem is not monolithic. Users interact with multiple chains, from Ethereum and its various Layer 2 solutions to alternative Layer 1 networks like Solana, Avalanche, and others. The Layer 3 platform supports cross-chain functionality, allowing users to complete quests across different blockchain networks from a single interface.

This cross-chain approach positions Layer 3 as a universal gateway to the broader crypto ecosystem. Users no longer need to navigate multiple platforms or interfaces to explore different chains. Instead, Layer 3 provides a unified experience that simplifies multi-chain interaction.

Identity and Reputation Systems

Layer 3 implements sophisticated identity and reputation mechanisms that track user activity and achievements across the platform. This on-chain identity becomes increasingly valuable as users complete more quests and demonstrate their expertise in various blockchain domains. The reputation system built by Layer 3 could potentially serve as a foundation for future credential verification and access control mechanisms.

Comparing Layer 3 to Traditional Crypto Platforms

When examining Layer 3 alongside traditional cryptocurrency platforms like CoinMarketCap or CoinGecko, distinct differences emerge. While price tracking platforms excel at providing market data and analytics, they primarily serve passive information consumption. Layer 3 takes a fundamentally different approach by encouraging active participation and hands-on learning.

Beyond Price Tracking

Traditional crypto tracking platforms offer valuable services including real-time price data, market capitalization rankings, trading volume analysis, and historical charts. These tools are essential for traders and investors monitoring their portfolios. However, they do little to help users understand the underlying technology or engage with protocols directly.

Layer 3 complements these tracking platforms by providing the experiential component that passive data consumption cannot offer. Users who complete quests on Layer 3 gain practical knowledge that enhances their ability to interpret market data and make informed decisions. The combination of data-driven insights from tracking platforms and hands-on experience from Layer 3 creates a more comprehensive crypto education.

Learn-to-Earn Model

The learn-to-earn model pioneered by platforms like Layer 3 represents a significant evolution from traditional educational approaches. In conventional settings, users pay for education or consume free content without direct compensation. Layer 3 inverts this relationship by paying users to learn, recognizing that educated users are more valuable to the ecosystem as a whole.

This model aligns incentives between protocols seeking user adoption and users seeking knowledge and rewards. Protocols benefit from increased awareness and usage, while users benefit from rewards and education. Layer 3 facilitates this value exchange efficiently and transparently.

The Role of Layer 3 in DeFi Education

Decentralized finance represents one of the most complex and rapidly evolving sectors within the blockchain industry. Protocols like Aave have demonstrated the potential of DeFi to revolutionize traditional financial services, but the complexity of these systems often prevents mainstream adoption. Layer 3 plays a crucial role in demystifying DeFi for new users.

Understanding Lending and Borrowing Through Quests

DeFi lending protocols allow users to deposit assets and earn passive income or borrow against their holdings. These concepts, while powerful, can be confusing for newcomers. Layer 3 quests break down these complex operations into manageable steps, guiding users through their first lending or borrowing experience with clear instructions and safety nets.

By completing DeFi-related quests on Layer 3, users gain practical understanding of concepts like collateralization ratios, liquidation risks, and interest rate mechanisms. This hands-on experience proves far more valuable than theoretical knowledge alone.

Smart Contract Interaction

Layer 3 teaches users how to interact with smart contracts safely and effectively. Many users hesitate to engage with DeFi protocols due to fears of making mistakes or falling victim to scams. The structured quest environment provided by Layer 3 reduces these risks by guiding users through verified interactions with legitimate protocols.

Community and Social Features of Layer 3

Beyond individual quests and rewards, Layer 3 fosters a vibrant community of crypto enthusiasts and learners. The platform incorporates social features that encourage collaboration, competition, and knowledge sharing among users.

Leaderboards and Competition

Layer 3 implements leaderboard systems that rank users based on their quest completion, experience points, and other metrics. This competitive element motivates users to explore more protocols and complete additional quests. Top performers on Layer 3 often receive special rewards or recognition within the community.

Community-Driven Content

The Layer 3 ecosystem benefits from community contributions that expand the platform's educational resources. Experienced users share tips, strategies, and insights that help newcomers navigate the crypto landscape more effectively. This collaborative approach strengthens the Layer 3 community and enhances the overall learning experience.

Security Considerations on Layer 3

Security remains paramount in any blockchain application, and Layer 3 takes this responsibility seriously. The platform implements multiple security measures to protect users and their assets during quest completion.

Wallet Safety

Layer 3 educates users about wallet security best practices from their first interaction with the platform. Quests often include instructions on verifying transaction details, recognizing phishing attempts, and maintaining operational security. This security-first approach helps users develop good habits that protect them throughout their crypto journey.

Protocol Vetting

Before featuring quests on the Layer 3 platform, protocols undergo vetting processes to ensure they meet basic security and legitimacy standards. While no vetting process can guarantee complete safety, this due diligence reduces the risk of users interacting with malicious or poorly designed protocols through Layer 3.

The Future Roadmap of Layer 3

Layer 3 continues to evolve and expand its offerings to meet the changing needs of the crypto community. The platform's roadmap includes several exciting developments that will further enhance its value proposition.

Expanded Chain Support

As new blockchain networks emerge and gain adoption, Layer 3 plans to expand its cross-chain support to include these ecosystems. This expansion ensures that Layer 3 remains relevant regardless of which chains dominate the market in the future.

Advanced Quest Types

Future versions of Layer 3 will introduce more sophisticated quest types that challenge experienced users while remaining accessible to newcomers. These advanced quests may involve multi-step processes, time-limited challenges, or collaborative activities that require coordination among multiple users.

Enhanced Reward Mechanisms

Layer 3 continuously refines its reward mechanisms to ensure fair and sustainable distribution of incentives. Future updates may introduce new reward types, improved tokenomics, or additional earning opportunities for active community members.

Why Layer 3 Matters for Crypto Adoption

The broader significance of Layer 3 extends beyond individual user benefits. By lowering barriers to entry and making blockchain interaction more accessible, Layer 3 contributes to the overall growth and adoption of cryptocurrency technology.

Reducing Friction

Every friction point in the user journey represents a potential abandonment point. Layer 3 systematically reduces friction by providing clear guidance, immediate rewards, and a supportive community. Users who might otherwise give up on crypto due to confusion or frustration find success through the Layer 3 platform.

Building Informed Users

An ecosystem filled with informed, educated users benefits everyone. Users who understand how protocols work are less likely to fall for scams, more likely to participate in governance, and better equipped to contribute meaningfully to project development. Layer 3 builds this informed user base one quest at a time.

Conclusion: Layer 3 as an Essential Crypto Tool

Layer 3 has established itself as an indispensable platform for anyone serious about participating in the cryptocurrency ecosystem. Whether you are a complete newcomer taking your first steps into blockchain technology or an experienced user looking to explore new protocols, Layer 3 offers value through its innovative quest system, reward mechanisms, and educational approach.

The platform addresses fundamental challenges facing crypto adoption by making learning engaging, rewarding participation, and building a supportive community. As the blockchain industry continues to mature, Layer 3 will likely play an increasingly important role in shaping how users discover and interact with decentralized technologies.

For those looking to maximize their crypto journey, incorporating Layer 3 into their regular activities provides both immediate rewards and long-term knowledge gains. The platform represents the future of user engagement in Web3, where attention is valued, education is incentivized, and active participation leads to tangible benefits.

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  1. SoftEther VPN Project
  2. Documents
  3. SoftEther VPN Manual
  4. 3. SoftEther VPN Server Manual
  5. 3.8 Virtual Layer 3 Switches

3.8 Virtual Layer 3 Switches

The virtual layer 3 switch function adds a virtual router which can perform IP routing between multiple Virtual Hubs on the VPN Server, and enables the realization of a layer 3 connection between Virtual Hub segments by carrying out IP routing in accordance with routing rules defined by the Administrator.

3.8.1 What is a Virtual Layer 3 Switch?

Virtual Layer 3 Switch Overview

As described in 3.4 Virtual Hub Functions , the Virtual Hub is an object virtually realizing a physical layer 2 switch (switching hub) using software, and a plurality of Virtual Hubs can be created in the VPN Server. The Virtual Hub only supports the exchange of Ethernet frames on layer 2, and does not support layer 3 routing.

The virtual layer 3 switch was developed and implemented in response to requests to carry out IP routing between layer 2 segments in multiple Virtual Hubs. The virtual layer 3 switch implements as software the functions of communication devices commonly found in the office such as routers and layer 3 switches. The exchange of IP packets between each network is supported by creating multiple Virtual Hubs, separating the layer 2 segments and IP routing between those layer 2 segments.

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IP Routing between IP Networks with Virtual Layer 3 Switching.

The virtual layer 3 switch is a function intended for those with an intricate knowledge of networks and IP routing and Network Administrators. Virtual layer 3 switching is not required when using the normal VPN functions. When using the virtual layer 3 switch, sufficient consideration should be given to the impact upon the network, based upon a sound knowledge of IP routing. This explanations contained within this manual assume that the reader possesses such knowledge.

Virtual Layer 3 Switch Authority

Just as only Administrators of the entire VPN Server can create Virtual Hubs, so does the authority for creating, deleting and setting of virtual layer 3 switch lies solely with said Administrators. Although Virtual Hub Administrators can find out how their own Virtual Hub is connected to the virtual layer 3 switch, they cannot operate or edit the connection of an existing layer 3 switch nor manipulate the routing table. VPN Server Administrators are therefore required to perform settings when using the virtual layer 3 switch function.

3.8.2 Difference between Bridging & IP Routing

Layer 2 network-connecting bridges and cascade connections between Virtual Hubs are mechanisms which connect two separate network segments onto a single network segment. When using TCP/IP protocol within one of the segments, the computers within that segment must, in principle, belong to the same IP network (while it is possible to multiplex a plurality of IP networks on the same segment and make them communicate, computers connected to that network can only communicate directly with those belonging to the same IP network).

In comparison, IP routing is a mechanism which carries out packet exchange on an IP layer between two separate network segments. Please refer to documents on router operation and IP routing for details.

The physical router and layer 3 switch have one IP address for each network segment subject to routing, and forward the IP packet attempting to communicate via that IP address to other suitable interfaces using the routing table held internally by the router.

The VPN Server-definable virtual layer 3 switch operates by the same mechanism. Placing the virtual layer 3 switch between Virtual Hubs on the VPN Server enables IP routing between the Virtual Hubs to which it is connected. In this case, the virtual layer 3 switch has one interface each for segments on both sides. For example, two IP networks 192.168.1.0/24 and 192.168.2.0/24 exist and routing is carried out between them using the virtual layer 3 switch, then an interface is connected to both networks and two IP addresses 192.168.1.254 and 192.168.2.254, for instance, are assigned. When the computer belonging to 192.168.1.0/24 wants to transmit an IP packet to network 192.168.2.0/24, it is possible to send said packet using 192.168.1.254 as a gateway. The router with two interfaces for 192.168.1.254 and 192.168.2.254 then sends this packet to network 192.168.2.0/24. IP routing works by such a mechanism. The theoretical interface on the VPN Server by which the virtual layer 3 switch connects to the Virtual Hub is called the "virtual interface". The connection between the virtual layer 3 switch and the Virtual Hub is actually carried out in the software's internal memory and is not one which can be seen by users. However, a special virtual session known as a virtual layer 3 session is registered on the Virtual Hub to which the virtual layer 3 switch's virtual layer interface is connected.

3.8.3 Defining Virtual Layer 3 Switches

The VPN Server does not have any virtual layer 3 switches in default. Virtual layer 3 switches can be created at any time they are required by the VPN Server Administrator and in any amount.

All virtual layer 3 switches can be named and identified by said name. Alphanumeric characters and some symbols can be used in the name. To define a new virtual layer 3 switch, first select a name. Note that once a virtual layer 3 switch is created, its name cannot be changed.

To carry out settings relating to the virtual layer 3 switch, click the [Layer 3 Switch Setting] button in the VPN Server Manager and display the [Virtual Layer 3 Switch Setting] dialog box. When a virtual layer 3 switch is already registered here, double clicking on it opens up its settings window (all explanations on how to use the virtual layer 3 switch contained herein commence from this window). In the vpncmd utility, use commands starting with "Router" command.

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Virtual layer 3 switch setting window.

To create a new virtual layer 3 switch, click the [Create] button and designate its name. A virtual interface must also be defined and the [Start] button clicked before the newly-created virtual layer 3 switch begins running.

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Create virtual layer 3 switch window.

3.8.4 Adding Virtual Interfaces to connect to Virtual Hubs

Simply creating a virtual layer 3 switch serves no purpose, and is comparable to buying a physical router and layer 3 switch and simply leaving them on the shelf. In the same manner as physically connecting a router to the networks of each connection destination with a network cable, it is necessary to register virtual interfaces on the virtual layer 3 switch for the Virtual Hubs of destinations to be connected.

To register a new virtual interface, click the [Add Virtual Interface] button. Once the [Add Virtual Interface] dialog box appears, select the destination Virtual Hub. Also designate the subnet space belonging to the IP address held by that interface within the Virtual Hub.

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Add virtual interface window.

Multiple virtual interfaces can be created on a virtual layer 3 switch. Normally two or more virtual interfaces are added (only one serves almost no purpose). Register all of the Virtual Hubs to be subject to routing by the virtual layer 3 switch.

The only Virtual Hubs which can be directly connected to the virtual layer 3 switch are those running on the same VPN Server. When wishing to use layer 3 switching to IP route between a VPN Server on a separate computer or a Virtual Hub running on a VPN Bridge, first create a suitably-named Virtual Hub on the local side and connect it with virtual layer 3 switching, then cascade that Virtual Hub with said VPN Server on a separate computer or said Virtual Hub running on a VPN Bridge.

This method enables the connection of remote site Virtual Hubs or physical LANs by virtual layer 3 switching as well as the creation of site-to-site VPN skillfully incorporating an IP routing mechanism.

Previously, performing a similar connection required not only a VPN but also involved the purchase of hardware for IP routing. The SoftEther VPN facilitates simple implementation even for networks of sophisticated design by bringing together as software the functions required to connect remote locations to the VPN with IP routing.

3.8.5 Editing the Routing Table

The virtual layer 3 switch has a routing table similar to that of common physical routers and layer 3 switches. Even without designating anything, if a virtual layer 3 switch has a virtual interface connected to a Virtual Hub, then it has the route information to the IP network determined by the IP address and subnet mask set for that virtual interface. Accordingly, it is not necessary to define a routing table for the layer 2 segment directly connected to the virtual layer 3 switch.

When it is necessary to carry out IP routing via the directly-connected layer 2 segment to an IP network in a segment further ahead, then it is necessary to edit the values of the virtual layer 3 switch's routing table and add suitable routing entries.

The current routing able can be displayed using the [Edit Virtual Layer 3 Switch] dialog box. This table is empty immediately after the creation of a new virtual layer 3 switch. To make new entries in the routing table, click the [Routing Table Entry] button.

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Add routing table entry window.

The [Add Routing Table Entry] window has boxes to enter the details of new routing table entries for registration. The information which needs to be registered here is similar to that designated when adding an entry to the static routing table of a typical router or layer 3 switch. Specific examples of entries are shown below.

  • Network Address
    Designates the network address including the destination IP address subject to routing using this routing table.
  • Subnet Mask
    Designates the network mask together with the network address.
  • Gateway Address
    Designates the IP address of the IP packet forwarding destination (i.e. the IP address of the next router). The IP addresses which can be designated here must be included in either those IP addresses defined by each virtual interface of this virtual layer 3 switch or among the IP network defined by the subnet mask (note that even those not included are still registered without an error or notification appearing). If another virtual layer 3 switch is connected to an adjacent Virtual Hub, then it may also be the IP address of that virtual layer 3 switch's virtual network interface.
  • Metric Value
    Designates the metric value of the routing table entry.
When designating the default route, set the network address as 0.0.0.0 and the subnet mask as 0.0.0.0.

3.8.6 Starting and Stopping Virtual Layer 3 Switches

Start and Stop

Operation can be started for virtual layer 3 switches with one or more registered virtual network interfaces by clicking on the [Start] button. It is also possible to terminate a virtual layer 3 switch during operation at any time by clicking on the [Stop] button.

Note that it is not possible to edit the virtual layer 3 switch's virtual interface list or Routing Table in any mode other than [Terminated]. Therefore, terminate the virtual layer 3 switch to edit these parameters.

Virtual Layer 3 Switch Status

The virtual layer 3 switch has the following three modes and each is displayed in real time in the [Virtual Layer 3 Switch Setting] window.

Status Description
Stop Virtual layer 3 switch is stopped. This is the only state in which the virtual layer 3 parameters can be set.
Started (operating) Indicates that the virtual layer 3 switch is running, and that it is functioning because all Virtual Hubs connected to all defined virtual interfaces exist on the VPN Server and are online. This is the only state in which the virtual layer 3 switch can perform IP routing. Also, if even one of the Virtual Hubs connected to the defined virtual interfaces in this mode is deleted from the VPN Server or goes [Offline], then a transition to [Start (error)] mode occurs automatically.
Started (error) Although the virtual layer 3 switch may be set to Started status, when one or more of the Virtual Hubs connected to the defined virtual interfaces does not exist on the VPN Server or is offline then the virtual layer 3 switch cannot commence IP routing. Also, if all of Virtual Hubs connected to the defined virtual interfaces exist on the VPN Server or come online in this mode, then a transition to [Start (operating)] mode occurs automatically.

3.8.7 Limitations

The virtual layer 3 switch function has the following limitations.

  • It does not support dynamic routing protocols.
  • It does not support IGMP.
  • Sending an ICMP Echo request to the virtual layer 3 switch's virtual interface exceeding 1,472 bytes returns a 1,472 byte ICMP Echo response.