Blockchain Basics, Guides & Tutorials

What is Ink? Kraken’s Ethereum layer-2 blockchain

Key takeaways Ink is an Ethereum Layer 2 blockchain built by the crypto exchange Kraken on Optimism's OP Stack, and part of the Superchain network of interoperable chains. It is built specifically for DeFi, with roughly one-second blocks, sub-cent fees paid in ETH, and lending and trading apps live from day one. The INK token, capped at one billion units, is distributed to early users through an airdrop rather than sold first, reflecting a liquidity-first design. In this article An exchange steps onchain Ink at a glance How Ink came to be How does Ink work?

5 days ago DeFi & Staking

What Is Robinhood Chain? Ethereum L2 for Tokenized Stocks

6 days ago Crypto Companies

What is x402? The Payment Protocol Built for AI Agents

2 weeks ago Stablecoins

What is StarkNet (Ethereum L2)?

StarkNet is an Ethereum Layer 2 that uses zk-STARK proofs to deliver fast, low-cost transactions without giving up security or decentralization.

28 January 2026 By Maxwell Mutuma

What is zkSync (Ethereum Layer 2)?

zkSync is an Ethereum Layer 2 that uses zk-rollups for fast, low-cost transactions with cryptographic security, 1-second finality, and EVM compatibility.

28 January 2026 By Maxwell Mutuma

What is Optimism (Ethereum L2)?

Optimism is an Ethereum Layer 2 that uses optimistic rollups to cut gas fees and speed up transactions while inheriting Ethereum's security.

27 January 2026 By Maxwell Mutuma

What is Arbitrum (Ethereum Layer-2)?

Arbitrum is an Ethereum Layer-2 that uses Optimistic Rollups to cut fees and speed up transactions while inheriting Ethereum's security model.

26 January 2026 By Maxwell Mutuma

What is Namechain on Ethereum?

Namechain was a planned Layer 2 for the Ethereum Name Service. ENS Labs scrapped it in 2026 and moved the ENSv2 upgrade directly to Ethereum...

22 January 2026 By Maxwell Mutuma

What is an Initial DEX Offering (IDO)?

An IDO lets crypto projects launch tokens on a decentralized exchange, offering instant liquidity, open participation, and community-driven fundraising.

16 January 2026 By Maxwell Mutuma

What Is a Crypto Whale?

Crypto whales hold enough of a digital asset to move prices, drain liquidity, and influence on-chain governance across blockchains and projects.

15 January 2026 By Maxwell Mutuma

What does Web3 mean?

Web3 is the emerging internet phase where blockchains, smart contracts, and tokens give users direct control over data, identity, and digital assets.

12 January 2026 By Maxwell Mutuma

What is a Dutch Auction in Crypto?

A Dutch auction in crypto starts at a high token price and drops it until buyers accept, giving fair price discovery for token sales, IDOs,...

8 January 2026 By Maxwell Mutuma

What is Nonce in Crypto?

A nonce, or "number used once," is vital in crypto for validating blocks, preventing replay attacks, and securing blockchain networks like Bitcoin and Ethereum.

7 January 2026 By Maxwell Mutuma

In the Blockchain Explained category, we provide a wealth of educational resources covering a wide range of topics related to blockchain technology. Our writers offer clear, concise explanations of the workings of a blockchain, its potential applications, and the impact it could have on various industries.