Overview
Polygon is an infrastructure project launched in June 2021 that provides scaling solutions for Ethereum, aiming to improve transaction speed and reduce costs. It operates a proof-of-stake network and uses the POL token for staking and fees. Polygon has evolved from a sidechain into a broad ecosystem including Polygon zkEVM and other L2 frameworks.
How It Works
Polygon's original network is a proof-of-stake sidechain with its own validator set, running an EVM-compatible chain connected to Ethereum through bridges. Its newer offerings, such as Polygon zkEVM, are zero-knowledge rollups that post validity proofs to Ethereum. This multi-strategy approach lets developers choose the scaling model that fits their application.
Why It Matters
Polygon became one of the largest scaling ecosystems by onboarding brands and DeFi projects looking for cheap, EVM-compatible capacity. Its migration from a sidechain toward rollup-centric designs reflects the broader industry shift. Its token, rebranded from MATIC to POL, underpins staking and the aggregated ecosystem's economics.
Related Concepts
Polygon spans both Sidechain and Rollup models, including its zkEVM. It is an Ethereum Layer 2 infrastructure provider competing with Arbitrum, Optimism, and zkSync, and it connects through Bridges.