Layer 2

Layer 2 networks process activity outside a base blockchain and use that base chain for part of their settlement or security. Rollups batch transactions and submit data or proofs to a Layer 1.

Layer 2 scaling illustrated with bundled transactions and a base blockchain

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Buy Eclipse (ES) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Eclipse (ES), you've come to the right place. Eclipse is one of the more technically ambitious projects in the Ethereum and Solana ecosystems — an SVM Layer 2 built on...

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Buy Sonic SVM (SONIC) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Sonic SVM (SONIC), you've come to the right place. Sonic is a first-of-its-kind gaming blockchain built on Solana, designed to power the next generation of decentralized...

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Buy Sophon (SOPH) — A simple guide

Looking to buy Sophon (SOPH)? You've come to the right place. Sophon is a Layer 2 entertainment platform built to bring everyday users into crypto through gaming, AI, and social experiences —...

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Buy PHALA (PHA) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy PHALA (PHA), you've come to the right place. Phala Network is one of the more technically ambitious projects in the AI and Web3 space, aiming to make AI agents that can...

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Buy Treasure (MAGIC) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Treasure (MAGIC), you've landed in the right place. MAGIC is the native token powering Treasure, a platform building AI-driven entertainment and gaming experiences on...

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Buy Prom (PROM) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Prom (PROM), a modular ZkEVM Layer 2 built to connect EVM and non-EVM blockchains, you've come to the right place. PROM is generating interest among developers and crypto...

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Buy Orderly (ORDER) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Orderly (ORDER), you've come to the right place. Orderly Network is building something genuinely interesting in the DeFi space — a shared liquidity layer that lets traders...

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Buy Aevo (AEVO) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Aevo (AEVO), you've come to the right place. Aevo is a decentralized derivatives platform built on Ethereum's Layer 2, designed to bring fast, low-cost options and...

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Buy Cartesi (CTSI) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Cartesi (CTSI), you've landed in the right place. Cartesi is a blockchain infrastructure project that's quietly building something genuinely different — a way for developers...

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Buy ION (ION) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy ION (ION), you've come to the right place. ION is a cryptocurrency currently available on MEXC, one of the more accessible global exchanges for traders of all experience...

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Buy Taiko (TAIKO) — A simple guide

If you're looking to buy Taiko (TAIKO), you've come to the right place. Taiko is one of the more technically ambitious Layer 2 projects in the Ethereum ecosystem, built around zero-knowledge proof...

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What are Layer 2 crypto projects?

Browse the buying guides

They aim to increase capacity and reduce the cost per transaction. A sidechain with its own independent security model is not automatically a Layer 2 simply because it connects to Ethereum.

How it works

Optimistic and validity-proof systems use different methods to establish that transactions are correct. Their withdrawal paths, data availability, sequencers and upgrade controls also differ. The network’s token may govern decisions or incentives rather than pay gas, so buying that token is not the same as buying the asset needed to use the chain. Ecosystem growth should be considered alongside unlocks and the token’s actual function. Moving funds through a bridge adds dependencies beyond a normal wallet transfer.

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.