Ethereum is a cool blockchain—but high gas fees make it quite challenging to scale sometimes. That’s why it needs Layer 2 solutions to help reduce these costs. And speed up transactions in the process. Polygon, formerly Matic Network, is one of the top L2s built on top of the Ethereum to achieve this goal.

However, the relationship between Polygon and Matic Network often causes confusion.

Are they the same thing? Or are they different?

Think of it this way: Polygon is the evolved version of Matic Network—like a caterpillar transforming into a butterfly.

Matic Network was the initial project. Its main goal was to scale Ethereum using Plasma technology. Polygon, on the other hand, is the rebranded version of Matic Network. It now covers a much expanded list of scaling solutions and interoperability features.

Understanding this difference is super important for anyone interested in the Ethereum ecosystem.

So, let’s break things down, shall we?

Polygon vs. Matic Network: Key Differences

Looking back at how Matic Network transformed into Polygon shows just how much the Layer 2 solution has grown in the last few years. The change also came with some pretty cool upgrades