Networks / Avalanche / AVAX
Avalanche
A network of blockchains: a Primary Network of three chains plus sovereign Avalanche L1s with their own rules and validators.
THE OVERVIEW
What Avalanche does
Avalanche is a heterogeneous network of blockchains: rather than placing every application on one chain, it allows separate chains to be created for different applications. The Primary Network runs three of them. The C-Chain is an EVM implementation for Solidity contracts, the P-Chain handles validator and Avalanche L1 operations such as staking and blockchain creation, and the X-Chain handles Avalanche native tokens. Transaction fees on any of these chains are denominated in AVAX. [1]
Beyond the Primary Network, an Avalanche L1 is a sovereign network that defines its own membership rules and token economics. Each L1 is validated by a dynamic subset of Avalanche validators, and every L1 validator also syncs the P-Chain so that networks remain interoperable. L1s can run their own virtual machines, set their own fee regime and communicate natively through Avalanche Warp Messaging. [2]
IN PRACTICE
What people use it for
Use EVM applications
The C-Chain runs Solidity smart contracts, so Ethereum-style tooling and applications operate on it. [1]
Validate the Primary Network
A node becomes a Primary Network validator by staking AVAX, with the P-Chain recording validator operations. [1]
Launch a sovereign network
An Avalanche L1 sets its own validator membership, gas token and execution logic while staying connected to the Primary Network. [2]
UNDERSTAND THE TECHNOLOGY
Key concepts
Primary Network
A special Avalanche L1 running the P-Chain, C-Chain and X-Chain, which together form the base of the mainnet. [1]
AVAX fees
Issuing a transaction to any Avalanche blockchain costs a fee paid in AVAX. [1]
Avalanche L1
A network with its own rules, validated by a subset of validators that also sync the P-Chain. Isolating applications on separate chains avoids competing for the same block space. [2]
MARKET CONTEXT
AVAX market
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Official resources & sources
Dextape explanations based on the primary documentation below.