Base, an Ethereum Layer 2 rollup developed by Coinbase, has achieved 'Stage 1' decentralization, becoming the 10th L2 network to reach this status. The transition was marked by the introduction of permissionless fault proofs, using the OP Stack Fault Proof System deployed on Base's mainnet in October 2024, and the establishment of a 10-member decentralized Security Council. With fault proofs now live, any participant can propose or challenge claims about the network's state, supported by open-source challenger software and financial incentives for dispute resolution. This enables users to withdraw funds from Base to Ethereum without relying on centralized operators. The Security Council, composed of independent entities from multiple jurisdictions, oversees critical smart contract upgrades. Approval requires a 75% consensus threshold among Base, Optimism, and ten independent organizations, ensuring that no single entity can unilaterally execute upgrades. Stage 1 decentralization, as outlined in Vitalik Buterin's framework, represents an intermediate phase where permissionless proofs and decentralized governance are in place, but some central intervention is still possible. Base's next objectives include deploying multiple proof systems and progressing toward Stage 2, which would further reduce centralized control. Base is currently ranked #1 by total value secured (TVS). Other Ethereum rollups such as Scroll have also reached Stage 1 decentralization in recent days, with Scroll becoming the first full-EVM ZK rollup to achieve this status. The top four L2s by total value locked (TVL), securing approximately $27 billion in value, have now achieved Stage 1 decentralization.