Definition
Polygon is a concept in the Ethereum ecosystem that refers to a framework for building and connecting networks designed to scale Ethereum. It focuses on improving transaction speed and reducing costs while keeping compatibility with Ethereum’s existing tools and smart contracts. Rather than being only a single blockchain, Polygon represents an approach to creating multiple connected chains that extend Ethereum’s capabilities.
As a scaling concept, Polygon is closely related to ideas like Layer 2 solutions, which aim to move activity away from Ethereum’s main chain while still relying on its security model. Some Polygon networks can resemble a Layer 2 design, while others operate more like independent but Ethereum-compatible chains. In all cases, the core idea is to make Ethereum-based applications more efficient and accessible.
Context and Usage
In practice, Polygon is often discussed alongside terms such as Rollup and Layer 2 because it addresses similar scaling challenges. The concept covers different technical approaches under one umbrella, all intended to support higher transaction throughput and lower fees for users and developers. This makes Polygon an important part of broader conversations about how to scale public blockchains without sacrificing decentralization.
When people refer to Polygon in a general sense, they usually mean the overall ecosystem of Ethereum-compatible networks built using this scaling framework. The concept emphasizes interoperability between these networks and Ethereum, so assets and applications can move or interact across chains more easily. As a result, Polygon is positioned as a key building block in the multi-chain vision for Ethereum and related blockchain infrastructure.