> ## Documentation Index
> Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://docs.chainstack.com/llms.txt
> Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.

# Etherlink: Tezos-powered EVM Layer 2

> Deploy smart contracts on Etherlink, a Tezos-powered EVM-compatible Layer 2 with low gas fees, using Chainstack node endpoints for RPC access.

<Info>
  ### Request a dedicated Etherlink node

  [Contact us](https://chainstack.com/contact/) to request the deployment of a [dedicated Etherlink node](/docs/dedicated-node).
</Info>

Etherlink is an EVM-compatible, non-custodial Layer 2 blockchain powered by **Tezos Smart Rollup technology**. Unlike other Layer 2 solutions that are built on Ethereum, Etherlink leverages the security and innovation of the Tezos Layer 1 blockchain while providing full compatibility with Ethereum tools and infrastructure.

Built on Tezos' advanced rollup technology, Etherlink delivers a fast, fair, and nearly free experience for developers and users. This permissionless and censorship-resistant environment enables seamless integration with existing Ethereum tools, including wallets like MetaMask, development frameworks like Hardhat and Foundry, and indexing services.

## Key features

### Fast transactions

* **Sub-second confirmations**: Soft confirmations in less than 500ms.
* **Quick finality**: Leverages Tezos 2-block finality guarantee.
* **High throughput**: Built for scalable decentralized applications.

### Fair and decentralized

* **Decentralized governance**: Stakeholders can propose, vote, and shape the network.
* **Permissionless**: Anyone can run a node, post commitments, challenge, and secure the network.
* **Non-custodial**: No exclusive or irreversible third-party control.
* **No administrative keys**: Users retain complete control over their assets.

### Nearly free

* **Ultra-low fees**: ERC-20 transactions cost \$0.001 or less.
* **Minimal gas costs**: Avoids per-transaction Layer 1 gas fees.
* **Cost-effective development**: Build without worrying about prohibitive transaction costs.

## Technical architecture

### Tezos Smart Rollups

Etherlink is powered by Tezos Smart Rollups, an **enshrined optimistic rollup technology** implemented directly on Tezos Layer 1. This means:

* The rollup validation logic is built into the underlying Tezos protocol.
* Provides shared infrastructure for fraud proofs, message inbox, and refutation games.
* Ensures robust security backed by Tezos Layer 1.
* Enables true decentralization without relying on centralized operators.

### EVM compatibility

* **Full EVM support**: Deploy any existing Ethereum smart contract.
* **Tool compatibility**: Use familiar tools like MetaMask, Hardhat, Remix, and Foundry.
* **Asset bridging**: Seamless transfers to and from other EVM-compatible chains.
* **Developer experience**: Identical to developing on Ethereum.

## Use cases

### DeFi applications

* **Low-cost trading**: Minimal fees for frequent transactions.
* **MEV protection**: Decentralized sequencing prevents manipulation.
* **Cross-chain liquidity**: Bridge assets from multiple networks.

### Gaming and NFTs

* **Micro-transactions**: Nearly free in-game purchases.
* **Fast gameplay**: Sub-second confirmations for real-time games.
* **NFT trading**: Cost-effective minting and trading.

### DApp development

* **Rapid prototyping**: Quick deployment and testing.
* **Enterprise applications**: Scalable infrastructure for business use.
* **Cross-chain integration**: Interoperability with Ethereum ecosystem.

## Getting started with Etherlink

### Network details

* **Mainnet RPC**: `https://node.mainnet.etherlink.com`
* **Testnet RPC**: `https://node.ghostnet.etherlink.com`
* **Chain ID (Mainnet)**: 42793
* **Chain ID (Testnet)**: 128123
* **Currency**: ETH
* **Block explorer**: [https://explorer.etherlink.com](https://explorer.etherlink.com)

### Connect wallet

1. Open MetaMask and click "Add Network".
2. Enter the network details above.
3. Connect and start using Etherlink.

### Bridge assets

* Use the official Etherlink bridge at `bridge.etherlink.com`.
* Bridge ETH, USDT, USDC, and other assets.
* Support for LayerZero cross-chain transfers.

## Resources

* **Official website**: [https://etherlink.com](https://etherlink.com)
* **Documentation**: [https://docs.etherlink.com](https://docs.etherlink.com)
* **Block explorer**: [https://explorer.etherlink.com](https://explorer.etherlink.com)
* **Bridge**: [https://bridge.etherlink.com](https://bridge.etherlink.com)
* **Status page**: [https://status.etherlink.com](https://status.etherlink.com)
* **Discord**: [https://discord.gg/etherlink](https://discord.gg/etherlink)
* **Twitter**: [https://twitter.com/etherlink](https://twitter.com/etherlink)