OKX has officially launched the public mainnet of its Ethereum Layer-2 network, "X Layer." This ZK-powered network is designed to bring its vast user base into the on-chain world, offering a seamless, secure, and cost-effective gateway to decentralized applications.
What Is X Layer?
X Layer is an Ethereum Layer-2 scaling solution built with zero-knowledge (ZK) proof technology. It utilizes the Polygon Chain Development Kit (CDK), enabling it to connect to other chains via AggLayer for shared liquidity and a unified state. This architecture allows for faster, cheaper transactions while maintaining the robust security of the Ethereum mainnet.
Key features of X Layer include:
- Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) Compatibility: This allows developers to effortlessly deploy existing Ethereum-based dApps on X Layer with minimal changes.
- Enhanced Scalability: By processing transactions off-chain and generating cryptographic proofs, it significantly reduces gas fees and increases transaction throughput.
- Seamless Interoperability: Its integration with AggLayer facilitates smooth asset and data movement across a connected ecosystem of chains.
Bridging Millions of Users to Web3
The launch represents a significant milestone in onboarding users to Web3. With over 50 million global users, OKX is positioned to introduce a massive audience to on-chain activities. Users can now utilize the OKX Web3 Wallet to:
- Transfer assets on the X Layer network.
- Deposit and withdraw cryptocurrencies.
- Access a growing ecosystem of over 170 dApps for swapping, staking, and more.
Haider Rafique, Chief Marketing Officer at OKX, envisions X Layer as critical infrastructure. He stated, "We can think of X Layer and other L2 chains as the highways of the Web3 world. The dApps are the marketplaces, and self-custody wallets are the vehicles that bring users there."
A Thriving Developer Ecosystem
The network has seen rapid adoption since its testnet launch in late 2023, attracting a wide array of major Web3 projects. Renowned dApps like QuickSwap, Galxe, LayerZero, and Curve are already being deployed on the network. This strong initial developer interest underscores the network's potential to become a major hub for decentralized innovation.
For builders, the appeal lies in the powerful combination of Polygon CDK's developer-friendly tools and immediate access to OKX's large and active user base. This provides dApps with both the technology and the audience needed to thrive.
The Technology Behind X Layer: Polygon CDK and AggLayer
X Layer is powered by the Polygon CDK, a customizable open-source toolkit that allows developers to launch ZK-powered L2s for Ethereum. This foundation ensures the network benefits from continuous technological innovation. Furthermore, by connecting to AggLayer, X Layer does not operate in isolation.
This connection solves the common problem of fragmented liquidity across chains. It allows assets to move freely between X Layer and other chains in the AggLayer ecosystem, creating a unified and fluid experience for users and developers alike.
Marc Boiron, CEO of Polygon Labs, commented on the launch, saying, "X Layer's connection to AggLayer solves the problem of fragmented liquidity for users moving across chains... The impressive roster of applications building on X Layer is a testament to the network's potential."
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The Role of OKB in the X Layer Network
The OKB token, OKX's native utility token, serves as the gas token for the X Layer network. This means users need OKB to pay for transaction fees when interacting with dApps and executing smart contracts on the chain. This integration further cement's OKB's role within the broader OKX ecosystem.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is X Layer?
X Layer is an Ethereum Layer-2 network developed by OKX. It uses zero-knowledge (ZK) technology to provide users with faster transactions and lower fees while maintaining a high level of security and compatibility with the Ethereum ecosystem.
How do I start using X Layer?
To get started, you can use the OKX Web3 Wallet. From there, you can bridge assets to the X Layer network and begin interacting with the various decentralized applications available in its ecosystem.
What is the benefit of X Layer using Polygon CDK?
Using Polygon CDK allows X Layer to be inherently connected to a broader ecosystem of chains via AggLayer. This provides shared liquidity and state, making it feel like users are operating on a single chain and vastly improving the user experience.
Do I need OKB to use X Layer?
Yes, OKB is the native gas token for the X Layer network. You will need it to pay for transaction fees (gas) when performing any on-chain actions.
Is X Layer secure?
Yes, as a ZK-rollup, X Layer bundles transactions off-chain and submits validity proofs to the Ethereum mainnet. This allows it to inherit the security guarantees of Ethereum while operating with greater efficiency.
What can I do on X Layer?
You can interact with a wide range of dApps, including decentralized exchanges (DEXs), lending protocols, NFT marketplaces, and gaming applications. The network supports activities like swapping tokens, providing liquidity, and staking assets.