Layer 1

A Layer 1 is a base blockchain with its own rules for recording transactions and deciding which version of the ledger is valid. Bitcoin and Ethereum are familiar examples, but base networks can make very different choices about consensus, programmability and who can run a validator.

Layer 1 blockchain illustrated with connected blocks on a secure foundation

Browse the buying guides

All buying guides

Buy Qubitcoin (QTC) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Qubitcoin (QTC), you've come to the right place. QTC is a unique Layer 1 cryptocurrency that sits at the intersection of blockchain technology and quantum computation — a...

read more

Buy Archway (ARCH) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Archway (ARCH), you've come to the right place. Archway is a Layer 1 blockchain with a unique twist — it's designed to reward developers directly for the value their...

read more

Buy Areum (AREA) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Areum (AREA), you've come to the right place. Areum is a Layer 1 blockchain with a genuinely unique approach to consensus, and it's currently available to trade on MEXC....

read more

Buy Fuse (FUSE) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Fuse (FUSE), you've come to the right place. Fuse is a blockchain network built to help entrepreneurs and small businesses run digital operations without the usual technical...

read more

Buy Energi (NRG) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Energi (NRG), you've landed in the right place. Energi is a proof-of-stake cryptocurrency built with smart contracts, decentralized governance, and a self-funding treasury —...

read more

Buy U2U Network (U2U) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy U2U Network (U2U), you've come to the right place. U2U Network is a DAG-based, EVM-compatible Layer 1 blockchain designed for infinite scalability and DePIN applications — a...

read more

Buy Radiant (RXD) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Radiant (RXD), you've come to the right place. Radiant is a unique Layer 1 blockchain that combines the proven security of a UTXO architecture with the flexibility of Turing...

read more

What are Layer 1 cryptocurrencies?

Browse the buying guides

Their native coins belong to the network itself; application tokens issued on top of a chain are a different kind of asset.

How it works

Native coins may pay transaction fees, reward miners or validators, and secure proof-of-stake networks through staking. A busy blockchain does not automatically make every associated token valuable: issuance, fee design and token ownership also matter. Compare actual network use with token supply, validator concentration and the costs of running the network. Layer 2 networks build on a base chain, while bridges introduce a separate mechanism for moving assets between networks.

Blockchain explained: connected blocks in a blockchain network
Cryptocurrency wallet and keys illustrating secure access and recovery

A little groundwork goes a long way

Before your next purchase or transfer, understand who controls access, where your crypto is going and what the trade will actually cost.

Protect access to your crypto

An exchange account and a self-custody wallet need different safeguards. Protect exchange logins with a unique password and strong two-factor authentication. For self-custody, your recovery backup is what lets you restore access.

Keep recovery words offline and private. A support agent or website asking for them is a reason to stop.

See a recovery example

Your phone breaks. An exchange may help you recover your account after identity checks. A self-custody wallet cannot reset your recovery phrase. Check your wallet’s official backup instructions before relying on it.

Choose the right transfer network

The asset, token version and network must be supported at the destination. A familiar ticker or a matching address format is not enough. Read the receiving platform’s deposit instructions before selecting a withdrawal network.

Check the address, any required memo or tag, fees and minimums. Consider a small test transfer first.

See a network example

Your destination accepts USDC on Ethereum. Selecting a cheaper network at the sending exchange does not make it an Ethereum transfer. Use a network both ends support; an ordinary withdrawal does not bridge tokens.

Understand the price you pay

Trading fees are only part of the cost. The spread, available liquidity and withdrawal charges also matter. A market order prioritizes execution; a limit order controls the price but may remain unfilled or fill only partly.

Check the order preview and the amount you will receive, then compare the full cost of your intended purchase and withdrawal.

Work through a cost example

Hypothetical example: a $200 trade with a 0.1% trading fee costs $0.20 in trading fees. A separate $5 withdrawal fee brings those charges to $5.20. Spread or slippage may add more; these are not quoted exchange rates.