about

OPTIMISM

Optimism is a Layer-2 scaling solution for Ethereum called an Optimistic Roll-up, or ORU. An ORU solves Ethereum’s scaling dilemma by moving bulky transaction data off the main blockchain while retaining the security guarantees of Ethereum’s base layer.

Moreover, Optimism is the only EVM equivalent L2, meaning developer tooling works straight away. It takes one click to deploy dapps to the network, helping projects find new audiences on multiple chains.

Builders already familiar with developing for Ethereum will find deploying to Optimism incredibly simple due to true EVM equivalence. Tooling like Hardhat works out of the box. Optimism has allocated significant resources toward creating a best-in-class developer experience, and it shows. Deployment to Optimism is easily accomplished with one click. 
 

Optimism in summary 

Layer 2 networks have proven their worth in no uncertain terms. They retain Ethereum’s blockchain security while offering users a convenient way to avoid ETH gas fees at fast speeds.

However, Ethereum underwent a significant overhaul to become a fully proof-of-stake network in the last few months.
Nonetheless, that doesn’t mean that Ethereum 2.0 renders Layer 2 networks redundant. As the most popular smart contract blockchain, there is no amount of upgrades it can do to negate the traffic overload.

This puts Layer 2 protocols in a tight relationship with Ethereum, while the end-user only needs to have a commonplace browser wallet like MetaMask to take full advantage.