What is the Polygon Network (POL ex-MATIC)?
Key Takeaways
• Polygon is a Layer 2 solution that enhances Ethereum's scalability with lower transaction costs and higher throughput.
• The transition from MATIC to POL represents a significant upgrade, offering improved staking, governance, and utility features.
• Polygon's technologies, including Proof-of-Stake and interoperability solutions, support a diverse range of decentralized applications.
• The POL token will serve as the primary means for transaction fees, staking, and governance in the evolving Polygon ecosystem.
As blockchain adoption accelerates, scalability and low transaction costs remain critical hurdles for mainstream use. Polygon Network (formerly Matic Network, now advancing under the POL token brand) has emerged as a leading Ethereum Layer 2 scaling solution, providing developers and users with an efficient, secure, and versatile blockchain environment. This article explores Polygon's architecture, token evolution, and relevance in 2025’s fast-evolving crypto landscape.
What is Polygon?
Polygon is a protocol and framework designed to address Ethereum’s limitations by offering faster, cheaper transactions and improved user experience. It operates as a Layer 2 solution—meaning it runs atop Ethereum, leveraging the security of the mainnet while processing transactions off-chain to enhance throughput and reduce fees. Its primary products include a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) sidechain, zkEVM L2 chain, and customizable appchain infrastructure, supporting a wide variety of decentralized applications (dApps) across DeFi, NFTs, gaming, and more. Polygon is sometimes described as the “internet of blockchains” for Ethereum, aiming to unify and scale the ecosystem (Coinbase Learn, Kraken Learn).
The Evolution from MATIC to POL
Originally launched as the Matic Network in 2017, the project rebranded to Polygon in 2021. Its native token, MATIC, has powered network fees, staking, and governance. In 2025, Polygon is undergoing a transformative upgrade with the introduction of POL, a next-generation token designed to be even more flexible, supporting the expanding Polygon ecosystem with enhanced staking, governance, and utility features (Cointelegraph Guide).
- MATIC has served as the primary means for transaction fees, staking rewards, and governance votes.
- POL (Polygon 2.0) is being positioned as an upgrade, set to replace MATIC in line with Polygon’s broader vision for scaling Web3 infrastructure (Moonpay Introduction).
How Does Polygon Work?
At its core, Polygon leverages several key technologies:
- Proof-of-Stake (PoS): Validators secure the network by staking tokens and confirming transactions. Delegators can also participate by staking through trusted validators, earning rewards in return (Coinbase Learn).
- Checkpointing: Polygon regularly commits checkpoints to Ethereum, ensuring transaction validity and enabling robust security. This mechanism distinguishes Polygon from many other EVM-compatible chains (Crystal Intelligence).
- Interoperability: Polygon supports a growing suite of solutions, including zkEVM, optimistic rollups, and sovereign sidechains, making it highly adaptable for different use cases (Kraken Learn).
Why Is Polygon Significant in 2025?
Polygon has processed over a billion transactions and has consistently ranked among the top 20 cryptocurrencies by market capitalization. Its ongoing upgrades and the POL token migration are designed to keep Polygon at the forefront of Ethereum scaling and blockchain innovation.
Key points for users and developers in 2025:
- Lower transaction costs: Essential for DeFi and NFT projects competing for mainstream users.
- High throughput: Supports real-time gaming, decentralized exchanges, and large-scale dApps.
- Evolving ecosystem: Polygon’s new POL token and 2.0 protocol are positioning it as a foundational layer for the next generation of Web3 applications.
According to recent industry reports, Polygon’s move to POL aims to provide universal access and seamless interoperability across all Polygon-based chains and future rollup technologies.
Polygon Token Utility and Governance
- Transaction Fees: POL (ex-MATIC) will be used to pay gas fees on all Polygon-based chains.
- Staking: Holders can stake their POL tokens to secure the network and earn rewards.
- Governance: Token holders have the power to propose and vote on protocol upgrades, ensuring community-driven evolution.
The governance model is critical as Polygon continues to expand, enabling token holders to decide future integrations, upgrades, and scalability solutions (Cointelegraph Guide).
Security and Wallet Compatibility
Security is fundamental to any blockchain network. Polygon’s checkpointing and robust validator network provide strong security guarantees. For users, choosing a non-custodial hardware wallet like OneKey ensures private keys remain offline, protecting against hacks and malware.
OneKey stands out by offering seamless integration with Polygon and other major blockchains, allowing users to safely stake, vote, and manage POL (ex-MATIC) assets. Its open-source firmware, support for multiple networks, and user-friendly experience make it an ideal choice for anyone serious about asset security in the evolving Polygon ecosystem.
Latest News and Future Outlook
With the migration to POL underway and continued focus on scalability, the Polygon team is driving adoption with partnerships, protocol upgrades, and cross-chain innovations. For the latest developments, refer to resources like Cointelegraph’s Polygon News and Polygon Research.
For anyone participating in DeFi, gaming, or NFT projects on Polygon, or simply holding POL tokens, robust self-custody is essential. Consider securing your digital assets with OneKey hardware wallet, offering enhanced protection and full Polygon support for peace of mind as the network continues to grow and evolve.
