Optimism is a Layer-2 Ethereum rollup that provides developers and decentralized applications (dApps) with a faster and cost-effective ecosystem for development and operation. This open-source, secure, and permissionless platform offers an efficient alternative to Ethereum dApps, boasting faster transaction speeds, enhanced scalability, and reduced gas fees.
The OP token is the native digital asset within the Optimism ecosystem, playing a crucial role in the Optimism Collective's functionality. This ERC-20 token, introduced by the Layer-2 scaling solution in May 2022, is essential for various activities within the platform.
In early 2023, Optimism announced an airdrop of OP tokens to its user base, including Optimism users, voters on its DAO, multisig signers, and individuals who have contributed to Gitcoin Grants on Ethereum Layer-1.
Optimism goes beyond EVM (Ethereum Virtual Machine) compatibility, offering EVM equivalence. This feature enables the ecosystem to support all applications and tools that operate on Ethereum, providing developers with a seamless transition to a more operationally efficient alternative.
The Optimism platform supports numerous decentralized applications and integrations across DeFi, NFTs, bridges, on-ramps, wallets, tools, portfolio trackers, and DAOs. Additionally, it offers its bridge to facilitate the transfer of ETH and ERC-20 assets to the Optimism network.
