# Scaling Cardano Scalability is essential for a blockchain network to support an expanding user base, and ensure growth without sacrificing throughput. Scaling a blockchain usually requires a combined approach with a diversity of solutions to suit every situation and project. For example: * Layer 1 solutions: upgrades applied directly to the main-chain protocol. * Layer 2 solutions: additional chains (sidechains) or layer 2 solutions (ZK rollups) that boost main-chain performance. --- # Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter: ``` GET https://cardano-wiki.gitbook.io/cardano/scalability/scalability-contents/taking-a-closer-look-at-iog-research/scaling-cardano.md?ask= ``` The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.