Optimism (OP) is a layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum, aiming to increase transaction throughput and reduce gas fees by processing transactions off the Ethereum mainnet.
Optimism is not a cryptocurrency itself - rather, it is a layer 2 scaling solution for the Ethereum blockchain. Optimism aims to address Ethereum's scalability issues by utilizing optimistic rollups, a technology that allows for more transactions to be processed off-chain and then batched together on-chain for verification. This approach significantly reduces transaction fees and speeds up transaction times compared to using the Ethereum mainnet directly. Optimism aims to enhance the usability and efficiency of decentralized applications (dApps) built on Ethereum, making them more accessible and affordable for users.
As a layer 2 solution, Optimism maintains compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), ensuring that dApps can easily migrate from Ethereum to Optimism with minimal adjustments. This interoperability enables developers to leverage existing Ethereum infrastructure while benefiting from Optimism's improved performance metrics. Projects utilizing Optimism can provide users with a seamless experience, offering fast transaction finality and low costs, which are critical for the widespread adoption of decentralized finance (DeFi) applications and other Ethereum-based services. Optimism continues to evolve, with ongoing developments aimed at further enhancing scalability, security, and decentralization within the Ethereum ecosystem.