Layer 3 is Revolutionizing Web3 User Engagement and Onboarding

The cryptocurrency and blockchain ecosystem has witnessed tremendous growth over the past decade, yet one persistent challenge remains: how to effectively onboard new users and keep them engaged with decentralized applications. Layer 3 is emerging as a groundbreaking solution to this fundamental problem, creating an innovative platform that bridges the gap between curious newcomers and the complex world of Web3 technologies.

Understanding What Layer 3 Represents in the Crypto Ecosystem

Layer 3 is a comprehensive platform designed to facilitate user acquisition, engagement, and retention for blockchain projects and decentralized applications. Unlike traditional marketing approaches that often fail to translate into meaningful user participation, Layer 3 is built specifically for the unique requirements of the Web3 space. The platform leverages gamification, rewards, and educational content to create compelling experiences that transform passive observers into active participants.

At its core, Layer 3 is an infrastructure layer that connects protocols, applications, and users through a sophisticated quest and credential system. This approach recognizes that the cryptocurrency space requires more than just awareness campaigns—it demands hands-on experience and genuine understanding. Layer 3 is addressing this need by creating structured pathways that guide users through various blockchain interactions while rewarding their progress.

The Mission and Vision Behind Layer 3

Layer 3 is driven by a clear mission: to accelerate the adoption of decentralized technologies by making them accessible and rewarding for everyone. The team behind Layer 3 is committed to building infrastructure that benefits both users seeking to explore Web3 and projects looking to grow their communities authentically.

The vision of Layer 3 is particularly ambitious. Layer 3 is working toward a future where discovering and engaging with blockchain applications becomes as intuitive as browsing traditional websites. By removing friction and adding incentives, Layer 3 is creating an environment where curiosity naturally evolves into expertise.

Core Values That Define Layer 3

Layer 3 is built upon several foundational principles that guide its development and operations. Transparency stands as a cornerstone of everything Layer 3 is creating, ensuring that users understand exactly how the platform works and what they can expect. Additionally, Layer 3 is committed to user empowerment, believing that individuals should have control over their data and digital identities.

How Layer 3 Works: A Deep Dive into the Platform Mechanics

Layer 3 is structured around a quest-based system that transforms complex blockchain interactions into manageable, rewarding tasks. Users who join Layer 3 are presented with various opportunities to learn about and interact with different protocols, earning rewards and credentials along the way.

The Quest System Explained

The quest system is where Layer 3 is most innovative. Each quest on Layer 3 is designed to introduce users to specific aspects of a protocol or application. These quests might involve swapping tokens on a decentralized exchange, providing liquidity to a pool, minting an NFT, or participating in governance voting. Layer 3 is careful to structure these activities in ways that educate while engaging.

When users complete quests on Layer 3, they receive various rewards. Layer 3 is known for distributing tokens, NFTs, and experience points that contribute to a user's overall profile and reputation within the ecosystem. This gamified approach that Layer 3 is pioneering has proven remarkably effective at driving genuine engagement.

Credential and Identity Systems

Beyond immediate rewards, Layer 3 is building a comprehensive credential system that allows users to showcase their blockchain experience. These credentials that Layer 3 is issuing serve as verifiable proof of on-chain activity and expertise. For users, this means that time spent on Layer 3 is contributing to a portable reputation that can unlock opportunities across the Web3 ecosystem.

Layer 3 is also developing identity solutions that aggregate user activity across multiple chains and protocols. This holistic view that Layer 3 is creating enables more personalized experiences and helps projects identify their most valuable community members.

Benefits for Protocols and Projects Using Layer 3

Layer 3 is not just beneficial for individual users—it provides substantial value to the projects that integrate with the platform. For protocols seeking to grow their user base, Layer 3 is offering a targeted approach to user acquisition that goes beyond simple advertising.

Quality User Acquisition

One of the primary advantages that Layer 3 is delivering to projects is access to quality users. Because Layer 3 is designed to reward genuine engagement rather than superficial interactions, the users acquired through the platform tend to be more invested and active. Layer 3 is essentially filtering for users who are willing to learn and participate meaningfully.

Data and Analytics

Layer 3 is also providing projects with valuable insights into user behavior and engagement patterns. The analytics that Layer 3 is generating help protocols understand how users interact with their platforms, where friction points exist, and what features drive the most engagement. This data-driven approach that Layer 3 is facilitating enables continuous improvement and optimization.

The User Experience on Layer 3

For individual users, Layer 3 is creating an experience that feels more like a game than traditional cryptocurrency activities. New users who discover Layer 3 are greeted with an intuitive interface that presents available quests, tracks progress, and displays earned rewards.

Getting Started with Layer 3

Beginning the journey on Layer 3 is straightforward. Users connect their wallets to Layer 3 and can immediately start exploring available quests. Layer 3 is designed to accommodate users at all experience levels, with beginner-friendly quests that introduce fundamental concepts alongside more advanced challenges for experienced users.

Progression and Rewards

As users complete more activities on Layer 3, they accumulate experience points and credentials. Layer 3 is structured to reward consistency and breadth of engagement, encouraging users to explore diverse protocols and chains. The reward system that Layer 3 is implementing creates genuine incentives for continued participation.

Layer 3 and the Broader Web3 Ecosystem

Layer 3 is positioned at a crucial intersection within the cryptocurrency ecosystem. By serving as a bridge between users and protocols, Layer 3 is playing an essential role in the overall growth and maturation of Web3 technologies.

Supporting Multi-Chain Adoption

Layer 3 is particularly valuable in the current multi-chain environment. With numerous Layer 1 and Layer 2 networks competing for attention, Layer 3 is helping users navigate this complexity by providing structured introductions to various ecosystems. The cross-chain approach that Layer 3 is taking ensures that users gain exposure to the full breadth of available options.

Educational Impact

The educational component of Layer 3 is often underestimated. Through its quest system, Layer 3 is effectively teaching users about decentralized finance, NFTs, governance, and other crucial Web3 concepts. This hands-on learning approach that Layer 3 is championing proves far more effective than passive content consumption.

The Technology Powering Layer 3

Layer 3 is built on robust technical infrastructure designed to handle the complexities of cross-chain interactions and user verification. The engineering team behind Layer 3 is continuously improving the platform's capabilities and reliability.

Smart Contract Integration

Layer 3 is integrated with numerous smart contracts across multiple blockchain networks. This integration allows Layer 3 to verify user actions on-chain, ensuring that quest completions are legitimate and rewards are distributed fairly. The technical sophistication that Layer 3 is demonstrating sets it apart from simpler marketing platforms.

Scalability and Performance

As Layer 3 is growing its user base, scalability becomes increasingly important. Layer 3 is architected to handle large volumes of users and transactions without compromising performance. This commitment to scalability that Layer 3 is maintaining ensures a smooth experience even during periods of high demand.

Future Developments and Roadmap for Layer 3

Layer 3 is continuously evolving, with ambitious plans for future development. The team behind Layer 3 is working on several initiatives that promise to expand the platform's capabilities and reach.

Enhanced Features

Layer 3 is developing new features that will further gamify the Web3 experience. These include more sophisticated progression systems, social features that allow users to collaborate and compete, and expanded reward mechanisms. The innovation that Layer 3 is pursuing ensures the platform remains at the forefront of user engagement solutions.

Ecosystem Expansion

Layer 3 is also focused on expanding its ecosystem partnerships. By integrating with more protocols and chains, Layer 3 is increasing the opportunities available to users while providing greater reach for partner projects. This growth strategy that Layer 3 is executing positions the platform for long-term success.

Conclusion: The Significance of Layer 3 in Web3 Adoption

Layer 3 is fundamentally changing how users discover and engage with blockchain technology. By combining education, gamification, and rewards, Layer 3 is solving one of the most persistent challenges in the cryptocurrency space. As the platform continues to grow and evolve, Layer 3 is poised to play an increasingly important role in driving mainstream adoption of decentralized technologies.

For anyone interested in exploring the world of Web3, Layer 3 is an excellent starting point. The platform that Layer 3 is building represents a new paradigm in user onboarding, one that respects users' time and intelligence while making the learning process genuinely enjoyable. As Layer 3 is continuing to innovate and expand, its impact on the broader cryptocurrency ecosystem will only grow stronger.

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  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.