OKX has officially launched its X Layer mainnet, marking a significant milestone in bringing its 50 million users into the on-chain ecosystem. This Ethereum-based zero-knowledge L2 network leverages Polygon's technology stack to enhance transaction efficiency and reduce costs.
X Layer: OKX's Next-Gen Infrastructure
Built using Polygon's Chain Development Kit (CDK), X Layer is a zkEVM Layer 2 solution that combines Ethereum's security with high throughput capabilities. Originally codenamed "X1" during its test phase, the network went live after successful testing that began in November 2023.
OKX COO Haider Rafique describes the vision: "We see L2 solutions as the highway infrastructure for Web3," highlighting X Layer's role in enabling decentralized applications and exchanges. The network saw rapid adoption during its testnet phase, with over 50 dApps deploying within the first week.
👉 Discover how X Layer transforms DeFi transactions
Ecosystem Growth and Key Features
Rapid Adoption by Major Platforms
Prominent Web3 projects have already integrated with X Layer, including:
- The Graph (indexing protocol)
- Curve Finance (stablecoin DEX)
- LayerZero (omnichain interoperability)
- QuickSwap (DEX aggregator)
- Galxe (web3 credential network)
With support for 170+ dApps, users can seamlessly access DeFi services through OKX's interface, including token swaps and staking.
OKB as Native Gas Token
The network utilizes OKB (OKX's native token) for transaction fees. The token recently saw an 8.18% price surge following the mainnet announcement. As the second-largest crypto exchange by volume, OKX facilitated over $60 billion in trades last month.
Technical Advantages
Polygon CDK Integration
X Layer employs Polygon's zkRollup technology to:
- Maintain Ethereum-level security
- Achieve high transaction throughput
- Enable easy migration of existing Ethereum dApps
AggLayer Connectivity
Through Polygon's blockchain aggregation layer, X Layer will:
- Solve liquidity fragmentation across chains
- Create unified user experiences
- Enable cross-chain interoperability
Polygon Labs CEO Marc Boiron emphasizes: "Connecting to AggLayer represents a crucial step toward a cohesive Web3 ecosystem."
Market Impact and Future Outlook
The launch positions OKX to:
- Bridge centralized exchange users to DeFi
- Reduce Ethereum congestion and gas fees
- Compete with other major L2 solutions
- Accelerate institutional adoption of web3
👉 Explore X Layer's developer documentation
FAQ Section
Q: How does X Layer compare to Arbitrum or Optimism?
A: While all are Ethereum L2s, X Layer uses zk-Rollups for better scalability and inherits Ethereum's security more directly than optimistic rollups.
Q: Can I use existing Ethereum wallets with X Layer?
A: Yes, the network is EVM-compatible, meaning MetaMask and other wallets work natively after network configuration.
Q: What makes OKB different as a gas token?
A: OKB benefits from OKX's existing liquidity and utility, potentially increasing demand through X Layer adoption.
Q: How does AggLayer improve user experience?
A: It enables single-transaction interactions across connected chains, eliminating manual bridging between ecosystems.
Q: Is X Layer suitable for institutional users?
A: Absolutely. The combination of OKX's compliance framework and L2 efficiency makes it ideal for enterprise adoption.
Q: What's the roadmap after mainnet launch?
A: Expect progressive decentralization, additional chain connections via AggLayer, and more institutional-grade DeFi tools.
Note: All technical specifications and partnership details reflect the most current information at publication.