BEP-640: BNB Chain's solution to stabilize the network through configurable gas limits

BNB Chain has introduced BEP-640, an innovative proposal that introduces a flexible client-level gas limiting mechanism to optimize network performance. Unlike the rigid restrictions implemented by other blockchains, this approach allows validators and node operators to voluntarily adopt controls over gas consumption, significantly improving stability without compromising decentralization.

What is BEP-640 and how does it work?

BEP-640 establishes a configurable gas limit for each transaction on BNB Smart Chain (BSC), but its application occurs at the client level rather than being enforced through consensus mechanisms. This pragmatic design allows each node operator to customize their parameters according to their infrastructure capabilities.

The proposal specifically targets transactions that consume significant amounts of gas, which can slow down block production and increase chain reorganization rates. By setting configurable thresholds, BEP-640 mitigates these issues without forcing the entire network to adopt the same policy, preserving BNB Chain’s decentralized philosophy.

Network growth and optimization demand

Current data reveals that BNB Chain reached 58 million active monthly wallet addresses by the end of September 2025, positioning itself above Solana and consolidating as one of the most used networks. This exponential growth has put pressure on infrastructure, making improvements like BEP-640 increasingly urgent.

Validators now have greater operational flexibility. Those running high-performance nodes can allow higher transaction limits, while operators prioritizing stability over volume will set tighter restrictions. This autonomy represents a fundamental shift in how the network is managed.

Alignment with performance upgrades

BEP-640 works in tandem with the upcoming Fermi Hard Fork, scheduled for January 14, 2026, which promises faster blocks and improved EVM performance. These complementary improvements reinforce BSC’s competitive positioning in the market.

Currently, average transaction fees on BSC range between $0.05 and $0.20, significantly lower than the $0.44 average on Ethereum. This cost advantage remains a key factor in attracting developers and users to the BNB Chain ecosystem, especially in high-volume DeFi applications like PancakeSwap, where TVL exceeds $17.1 billion.

Industry comparative perspective

While Ethereum implemented EIP-7825 with strict protocol limits to prepare for parallel execution, BNB Chain has adopted a different strategy based on flexibility and gradual adoption. This contrast reflects two opposing philosophies: centralized regulation versus distributed governance.

The success of BEP-640 will depend on the voluntary adoption rate among validators and the demonstrable impact on network performance metrics. If effectively implemented, it could serve as a model for other blockchains seeking to optimize performance without sacrificing decentralization.

Implications for the future of the ecosystem

BNB Chain continues to expand its technical capabilities across multiple fronts: DeFi, Gaming, and Artificial Intelligence. BEP-640 represents one of several mechanisms that will enable the network to maintain its competitiveness in the layer 1 blockchain landscape. The combination of improved scalability, reduced costs, and a robust infrastructure positions BNB Chain as a reference platform for developers and users seeking operational efficiency.