In a significant development for the blockchain ecosystem, OKX has partnered with Polygon to introduce the X1 network, a new zkEVM Layer 2 solution. This network, now live on testnet, represents an upgrade to OKBC and is built using Polygon's Chain Development Kit (CDK). X1 leverages Zero-Knowledge (ZK) proof technology to enhance security and scalability while significantly reducing transaction costs for users. The native token for this new network will be OKB.
Designed as a high-performance bridge, X1 aims to seamlessly connect OKX's vast user base of over 50 million with the expansive ecosystems of Polygon and Ethereum. This integration allows developers to deploy Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-compatible decentralized applications (DApps) effortlessly, providing access to a wider array of smart contracts, wallets, and developer tools.
What Is the X1 Network?
The X1 network is a Layer 2 scaling solution built on top of the Ethereum blockchain. By utilizing zkEVM technology, it offers full compatibility with Ethereum's existing infrastructure and applications. This means developers can port their projects to X1 without modifying their code, benefiting from faster transaction speeds and lower fees.
The core technology behind X1 is Zero-Knowledge proofs, a cryptographic method that allows for transaction validation without revealing underlying data. This not only enhances privacy but also significantly improves network efficiency.
Key Features and Benefits of X1
- Enhanced Scalability: By processing transactions off-chain and submitting proof batches to the main Ethereum chain, X1 dramatically increases the number of transactions per second (TPS) the network can handle.
- Reduced Costs: Users enjoy much lower gas fees compared to conducting transactions directly on the Ethereum mainnet, making micro-transactions and frequent interactions more feasible.
- EVM Equivalence: Full compatibility with the Ethereum ecosystem ensures a smooth experience for both developers and users. All existing Ethereum tools, like MetaMask and Hardhat, work natively with X1.
- Strong Security: Inheriting the security guarantees of Ethereum, with the added layer of cryptographic proofs from ZK-rollup technology.
- OKB Utility: The use of OKB as the native gas token enhances its utility and value within the OKX ecosystem and beyond, integrating it directly into a leading Layer 2 solution.
The Role of Polygon's CDK
Polygon's CDK is an open-source toolkit that allows projects to launch their own customizable, ZK-powered Layer 2 chains. By building X1 with this toolkit, OKX ensures its network is interoperable with the entire growing ecosystem of Polygon-powered chains. This fosters a cohesive environment rather than creating an isolated silo, encouraging liquidity and user sharing across multiple chains.
Implications for Developers and Users
For the development community, X1 presents a compelling environment to build scalable DApps. The low-cost, high-throughput environment is ideal for applications like GameFi, social platforms, and decentralized exchanges (DEXs) that require a high volume of transactions.
For users, especially the 50 million within the OKX ecosystem, X1 provides a familiar and easy on-ramp to the world of Ethereum DeFi and NFTs without the prohibitive costs. It effectively breaks down barriers to entry, allowing more people to participate in the decentralized web.
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Frequently Asked Questions
What is a zkEVM?
A zkEVM is a Layer 2 scaling solution that uses Zero-Knowledge proofs to bundle transactions off-chain before posting verified proof to Ethereum. Its key feature is full compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine, allowing developers to use existing Ethereum tools and smart contracts without any changes.
Why is OKB used as the native token for X1?
Using OKB as the native gas token for the X1 network increases its utility and demand. It integrates the token deeply into a high-performance blockchain, allowing holders to use it for transaction fees, staking, and governance within the X1 ecosystem, thereby strengthening the entire OKX infrastructure.
How does X1 benefit from partnering with Polygon?
The partnership provides OKX with access to Polygon's battle-tested CDK and its established expertise in ZK technology. This accelerates development and ensures X1 is interoperable with other chains in the Polygon ecosystem, creating a larger, more connected network effect for all users.
What is the difference between a testnet and a mainnet?
A testnet is a live blockchain environment used for testing and development where no real-value assets are at risk. After thorough testing and auditing, the mainnet is launched, which is the fully operational network where transactions have real economic consequences.
When will the X1 mainnet be launched?
The official announcement detailed the testnet launch. Mainnet release dates are typically confirmed after a successful testing phase, which allows developers to identify and fix any potential issues. Users should follow official OKX channels for updates on the mainnet timeline.
Do I need to migrate my assets to use X1?
Once the mainnet is live, users will likely need to bridge their assets from the Ethereum mainnet (or other supported chains) to the X1 network to use its applications. This process will be facilitated through a secure bridge interface, and instructions will be provided by OKX upon launch.