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Optimism OP

Ethereum scaling and governance.

Optimism develops Ethereum scaling technology and an ecosystem of connected chains. OP is a governance token.

What is Optimism?

OP Mainnet runs applications on an Ethereum-connected network. OP holders can participate in the Optimism Collective’s governance. The OP token is separate from ETH, which is used for transaction fees on OP Mainnet.

Chains using related software can have different rules and risks. Bridging assets requires checking both the destination and the bridge being used.

Why people pay attention

  • Application network

    OP Mainnet supports Ethereum-style applications.

  • Shared technology

    The OP Stack is used to build additional chains.

  • Governance

    OP holders can vote or delegate voting power.

Origins & development

The Optimism Collective and its OP governance token were introduced in 2022. This governance milestone is separate from the earlier development of the network and its software.

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Related stories and learning resources will be added after editorial review.

Sources & further reading

Draft — editorial review pending

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