> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.tetreum.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.tetreum.com/network/key-features/scalability.md).

# Scalability

Tetreum describes scalability as a result of separating smart contract execution from consensus and network propagation.

## Modular design

* **Execution layer:** optimized for EVM compatibility
* **Consensus layer:** lightweight PoA engine
* **Storage layer:** efficient state structures using Merkle Patricia Trees

## Performance model in the source

The whitepaper includes the following conceptual formula:

```
Effective Throughput = f(N, V) = O(C / (L · V))
```

Where:

* `N` = number of full nodes
* `C` = total compute capacity
* `L` = latency introduced per node
* `V` = number of validators participating in consensus

## Fee behavior

The source also emphasizes:

* Fixed base-fee style behavior
* Reduced congestion spikes
* More reliable cost estimation for developers