What is Polygon zkEVM? How to add Polygon zkEVM to Metamask?

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3 Feb 2024

KEY TAKEAWAYS

zkEVM is a technology developed through the fusion of Zero-Knowledge Proof (ZKP) and the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM).
Designed to be compatible with Ethereum, zkEVM facilitates the implementation of smart contracts using ZK Proof technology on the Ethereum platform, making the deployment process more straightforward.
For developers, zkEVM provides an abstraction layer, simplifying the deployment of ZK applications. Developers are relieved from the intricacies of ZK algorithms at the lowest level, allowing for a more accessible implementation.

1. WHAT IS POLYGON ZKEVM?

Polygon zkEVM is an Ethereum Layer 2 scaling solution that operates in a decentralized manner, leveraging Zero-Knowledge Proof cryptography to provide rapid and cost-effective off-chain transaction computation by publishing non-interactive, zero-knowledge proof verifications while maintaining compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM).

zkEVM simplifies the development of ZK applications | Souce: incrypted.com

Developers on Polygon zkEVM can utilize the same source code, tools, and applications they use on Ethereum, but with enhanced processing capabilities and lower fees. Thus, the Polygon zkEVM ecosystem is introduced with the mission to extend Layer 2 scalability, offering users advantages in transaction speed, cost efficiency, and heightened network security.

The Polygon zkEVM ecosystem was introduced with the mission of expanding Layer 2 scalability | Souce: thuancapital.com

1.1. Operating Mechanism

Polygon zkEVM NFT is a virtual machine meticulously designed and developed to replicate the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). It achieves transparency by re-creating all existing EVM code to deploy Ethereum smart contracts seamlessly. Polygon zkEVM advances ZK Rollup technology running on the Ethereum Mainnet, enhancing scalability exponentially and transactions per second (TPS) for Ethereum.
Typically, transactions would need to be processed directly on Layer 1, incurring high fees. However, with Rollup technology, this task is executed on Layer 2. Once verification is completed, the final results are transferred back to Layer 1. At this point, Layer 1 functions solely as a storage location, and the saved fees become evident.

Each layer is optimized to ensure benefits | Souce: www.0xkishan.com

1.2. Polygon zkEVM Terminology

Polygon zkEVM Bridge: Bridge to Polygon zkEVM likely denotes a bridge facilitating the connection between the Ethereum blockchain and Polygon's ZK-EVM. It enables the seamless transfer of assets between the two networks, allowing users to move assets from Ethereum to Polygon and vice versa.
Polygon zkEVM Airdrop: An airdrop traditionally involves the free distribution of tokens to holders of a specific cryptocurrency. In the context of Polygon zkEVM, an airdrop could involve the distribution of ZK-EVM-based tokens to specific addresses on the Polygon network.
Polygon zkEVM Testnet: A testnet serves as a distinct blockchain environment utilized for testing and development purposes. The Polygon zkEVM Testnet provides developers with a platform to experiment with and validate their smart contracts and applications before deploying them on the mainnet.
Polygon zkEVM Faucet: A faucet is a service or tool that offers free cryptocurrency to users. In the context of Polygon zkEVM, a faucet may enable users to acquire test tokens for development and testing purposes on the ZK-EVM Testnet.
Polygon zkEVM Swap: Swapping typically involves exchanging one cryptocurrency for another. Regarding Polygon zkEVM, a swap might indicate the process of exchanging assets on the ZK-EVM network, possibly utilizing decentralized exchanges or other swapping mechanisms.

These terms indicate various activities and features related to the development, testing, and utilization of applications on Polygon's ZK-EVM. Note that the specifics may evolve, and it is advisable to refer to the official Polygon documentation or community channels for the most up-to-date information.

These terms denote different operations and features | Souce: www.crypto.it

2. HOW TO ADD POLYGON ZKEVM WITH METAMASK?

How to add Polygon zkEVM to Metamask? The process of adding a custom network to MetaMask, such as the Polygon ZK-EVM, involves several steps. It's important to note that this information may change over time, so it's recommended to check the latest instructions from official sources. Here's a general guide:

Step 1 Open MetaMask: Ensure you have the MetaMask extension installed and open in your browser.
Step 2 Networks Tab: In the Settings menu, locate and click on the "Networks" tab. Add a New Network.
Step 3 Enter Network Details: Fill in the required information for the Polygon ZK-EVM network. General details include:
Network Name: Polygon ZK-EVM
New RPC URL: The RPC URL for the Polygon ZK-EVM network.
Chain ID: The chain ID for the Polygon ZK-EVM network.
Symbol: Symbol for the network's native currency.
Block Explorer URL: URL for a block explorer compatible with the Polygon ZK-EVM network.
Step 4 Save and Connect: After entering the details, click on the "Save" or "Add Network" button.
Step 5 Switch to the Polygon zkEVM Network: Once the network is added, switch to it by clicking on the network name at the top of the MetaMask window and selecting "Polygon ZK-EVM."

The steps to add zkEVM Polygons to the Metamask are simple | Souce: hakresearch.com

Always ensure that you use accurate and up-to-date information for the network details, which can usually be found on the official website or documentation of the Polygon ZK-EVM project.
zkEVM token contributes significantly to improving the scalability of Ethereum, even though Ethereum has upgraded to proof-of-stake for much faster speeds. Hopefully, these fundamental insights into zkEVM will provide a better understanding for those exploring projects utilizing this technology.