Polygon

Polygon is a blockchain scaling platform that provides multiple solutions for building and connecting Ethereum-compatible networks. Originally launched as Matic Network in 2017 by Jaynti Kanani, Sandeep Nailwal, and Anurag Arjun, it rebranded to Polygon in 2021 to reflect its expanded vision. The native token was renamed from MATIC to POL as part of the Polygon 2.0 upgrade.

The platform started with a Proof of Stake sidechain (Polygon PoS) that processes transactions at a fraction of Ethereum's cost. This chain quickly became one of the most used in crypto, hosting thousands of dApps and processing millions of daily transactions. It achieves this by batching transactions and settling them on Ethereum's mainnet for security.

Polygon's ambitions go beyond a single chain. The Polygon 2.0 vision includes a suite of zero-knowledge (ZK) proof solutions: Polygon zkEVM, which runs a ZK-powered Ethereum equivalent; Polygon CDK, which lets developers create custom ZK-powered chains; and Polygon Miden, a STARK-based solution for different use cases. These ZK technologies represent the cutting edge of blockchain scalability.

Major brands and companies have chosen Polygon for their Web3 initiatives. Nike (with .SWOOSH), Starbucks (Odyssey), Reddit, and Stripe have all built on or integrated with Polygon. The network supports a thriving DeFi ecosystem with protocols like QuickSwap and Aave, along with a robust NFT marketplace. Polygon's combination of low costs, Ethereum compatibility, and enterprise partnerships positions it as a key infrastructure layer for mainstream crypto adoption.