The Web3 landscape is evolving at an unprecedented pace, and at the heart of this transformation stands X Layer, a cutting-edge, Ethereum-based Zero-Knowledge (zk) Layer-2 (L2) network launched by OKX in strategic collaboration with Polygon Labs. Built using the Polygon Chain Development Kit (CDK), X Layer is engineered to deliver high performance, robust security, and seamless scalability—making it a powerful new force in decentralized infrastructure.
Designed for developers, creators, and Web3 enthusiasts alike, X Layer opens the door to a more connected, efficient, and accessible blockchain ecosystem. By integrating the strengths of OKX’s 50 million+ user base with the expansive Polygon and Ethereum developer communities, X Layer is positioned to accelerate mass adoption of decentralized applications (dApps) across DeFi, enterprise solutions, gaming, and beyond.
A New Era of Scalability and Interoperability
X Layer leverages zero-knowledge proofs (ZK)—a cryptographic innovation that enables secure and private transactions while drastically reducing computational overhead. This makes the network not only highly scalable but also cost-efficient, addressing two of the most pressing challenges in Ethereum’s current architecture: high gas fees and network congestion.
As a zkEVM-compatible chain, X Layer supports Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM)-based dApps, allowing developers to deploy smart contracts, wallets, and tools with minimal modifications. This seamless interoperability ensures a smooth transition for existing projects while lowering the barrier to entry for new builders entering the Web3 space.
OKX’s Native Network for Web3 Innovation
With the launch of X Layer, OKX establishes its own native blockchain network, marking a strategic shift toward deeper ecosystem integration and long-term Web3 development. The network will use OKB, OKX’s native platform token, as its gas token—enabling users to pay transaction fees directly with OKB and reinforcing its utility within the broader ecosystem.
This move strengthens OKB’s role beyond exchange-based functions, positioning it as a foundational asset for decentralized application development, governance, and network security. For developers, this means direct access to a vast, engaged user base already familiar with OKX’s suite of Web3 tools—including the OKX Wallet, a leading gateway to NFTs, GameFi, DeFi, and metaverse experiences.
Driving Ethereum Scaling Through Strategic Collaboration
As part of this landmark partnership, OKX is becoming a core contributor to the Polygon CDK, committing significant engineering resources to advance Ethereum scaling solutions. The Polygon Chain Development Kit, launched in late 2023, empowers enterprises and developers to launch custom zk-powered Layer-2 chains on Ethereum with unified liquidity and infinite scalability.
By contributing to the CDK’s evolution, OKX is helping shape the future of modular blockchain infrastructure. This collaborative approach fosters a network effect where multiple ZK L2s—such as those from Astar (Polkadot), Canto (Cosmos), Gnosis Pay, and Palm—can interoperate within a shared ecosystem, unlocking new possibilities for cross-chain composability and liquidity sharing.
“X Layer will be a key pillar of our efforts to educate and bring our users onchain and into the world of Web3,” said Jason Lau, Chief Innovation Officer at OKX. “This scalable and accessible network is perfect for developers who can build on X Layer to deliver user-friendly, world-class consumer Web3 applications—all while maintaining interoperability with other networks and ecosystems.”
Bridging Communities for Mass Adoption
One of X Layer’s most compelling advantages is its ability to bridge communities. With OKX’s global footprint and Polygon’s leadership in Ethereum scaling, the network connects millions of users with thousands of active developers. This synergy creates fertile ground for innovation, enabling faster iteration, broader distribution, and real-world utility for decentralized technologies.
Sandeep Nailwal, co-founder of Polygon, emphasized the strategic value: “The X Layer network offers developers an affordable and user-friendly platform to create decentralized apps, seamlessly bridging the vast OKX community with the Polygon and wider Ethereum ecosystems.”
He added: “Looking ahead, Polygon CDK-deployed chains can interoperate and coexist within a larger network of ZK-powered L2s. We’re excited to collaborate with OKX’s team to advance this technology and drive the success of the X Layer network.”
Core Keywords Driving Web3 Growth
This initiative is anchored in several core keywords that reflect its strategic focus and SEO relevance:
- zkEVM Layer-2 network
- Polygon CDK
- Ethereum scaling
- Zero-Knowledge proofs
- OKB utility
- Web3 developer ecosystem
- Blockchain interoperability
- Decentralized application (dApp) development
These terms naturally weave through the narrative of innovation, scalability, and ecosystem growth—aligning with user search intent around next-gen blockchain infrastructure.
👉 See how you can start building on a secure, scalable zkEVM network today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: What is X Layer?
A: X Layer is a new zkEVM-based Layer-2 network built on Ethereum using the Polygon Chain Development Kit (CDK). It serves as OKX’s native blockchain, designed for high performance, low-cost transactions, and seamless interoperability with Ethereum and Polygon ecosystems.
Q: Who developed X Layer?
A: X Layer was launched by OKX in collaboration with Polygon Labs. OKX is also contributing engineering resources as a core developer of the Polygon CDK.
Q: What blockchain technology powers X Layer?
A: X Layer uses zero-knowledge (ZK) rollup technology via the Polygon CDK, ensuring scalability, security, and EVM compatibility.
Q: What token is used on X Layer?
A: The native gas token on X Layer is OKB, OKX’s platform token. Users will pay transaction fees using OKB, expanding its utility in the Web3 ecosystem.
Q: Is X Layer compatible with existing Ethereum dApps?
A: Yes. As an EVM-compatible zkEVM chain, developers can deploy Ethereum-based dApps on X Layer with minimal changes.
Q: How does X Layer support Web3 developers?
A: X Layer offers a developer-friendly environment with low fees, fast finality, and access to OKX’s 50 million+ users. It also integrates with popular Web3 tools and wallets.
Shaping the Future of Decentralized Infrastructure
In the rapidly expanding Web3 universe, infrastructure is king. X Layer represents more than just a technical upgrade—it's a strategic ecosystem play that brings together users, builders, and innovators under one scalable, secure, and interconnected roof.
With ongoing support from OKX’s engineering team and deep integration into the Polygon CDK ecosystem, X Layer is poised to become a go-to platform for next-generation dApp development. Upcoming developer events and ecosystem grants are expected to further fuel adoption.
👉 Join the next wave of Web3 innovation—start building on a high-performance L2 today.
As Ethereum continues to scale through ZK technology, networks like X Layer will play a pivotal role in driving mainstream adoption. By lowering barriers for developers and empowering users with better experiences, this collaboration sets a new benchmark for what’s possible in decentralized technology.
The future of Web3 isn’t just decentralized—it’s interconnected, efficient, and ready for billions.