Ink is a purpose-built Layer 2 (L2) blockchain developed by Kraken and launched in October 2024. Built with Optimism’s OP Stack and integrated into the Superchain, Ink is designed to unlock DeFi’s full potential—offering lightning-fast speeds, low fees, and deep Ethereum compatibility. It’s EVM-ready, developer-friendly, and built to deliver a seamless onchain experience for both users and builders.

Ink bridges centralized exchanges and DeFi, providing Kraken’s extensive user base with an intuitive entry point into decentralized applications (dApps). Leveraging Ethereum’s security and scalability, it reduces gas costs while maintaining a trusted, high-performance environment.

Unlike other exchange-launched L2s, Ink does not introduce a native token. It uses ETH for gas and smart contract interactions—keeping things simple and aligned with Ethereum’s economic model. Kraken currently operates the network’s sequencer, with plans to progressively decentralize this function over time.

Ink reflects Kraken’s long-term commitment to Ethereum and decentralized finance, creating a trusted gateway to a rapidly evolving onchain economy.

Check out this video for a visual overview of Ink and its integration with Optimism’s OP Stack:

Key Features of Ink

While many L2s aim to be general-purpose, Ink is purpose-built for DeFi—optimized for speed, affordability, and simplicity.

• Fast & Low-Cost: Transactions are finalized in under a second, with ultra-low gas fees that make onchain activity seamless and cost-effective.

• Security: Sequencer-level protection and Ethereum-grade settlement ensure secure user interactions.

• Superchain Interoperability: Ink is part of the Optimism Superchain, enabling smooth cross-chain activity, shared liquidity, and support for SuperchainERC20—for easy asset movement between networks.

• Backed by Kraken: Kraken brings more than a decade of experience, regulatory compliance, and infrastructure stability to Ink’s foundation.

• Scales Ethereum: Ink enhances Ethereum’s throughput without sacrificing decentralization or user control.

• Built on the OP Stack: Ink inherits Optimism’s open-source modular architecture, combining flexibility with future-ready scalability.

• Developer-Friendly: Ink provides the tooling, documentation, and user base needed to go from MVP to mainnet.

• No Native Token: ETH is used for all transactions—no new governance or utility token to manage.

Why Convert ETH to INKETH?

INKETH is simply ETH bridged to the Ink Layer 2 network. If you want to interact with Ink-based dApps, pay gas fees, or explore DeFi at lightning speed, you’ll need INKETH in your wallet—just like you’d use ARBETH on Arbitrum or OPETH on Optimism.

How it works:

Bridge your ETH using Kraken’s Ink bridge at inkonchain.com/bridge. This converts it into INKETH, which you can use across the Ink network for dApps, NFT minting, and more.

Get Started With Ink

Here’s how to explore everything Ink has to offer:

1. Set Up a Wallet: Use any Ethereum-compatible wallet. We recommend Unity Wallet for its seamless Ink integration via WalletConnect. iOS link | Android link

2. Bridge ETH to INKETH:

   • Go to Optimism’s Superbridge or inkonchain.com/bridge.

   • Or, use Unity Wallet + WalletConnect:

     1. Tap “New connection”

     2. Visit inkonchain.com/bridge on a browser

     3. Click “Connect,” choose WalletConnect, and scan the QR code

     4. You’re now connected and can bridge ETH into INKETH directly

3. Explore dApps: Hundreds of Ink-based DeFi apps are available at inkonchain.com/apps.

4. Mint a Launch NFT: Claim a commemorative NFT celebrating Ink’s launch—created in partnership with Optimism.

5. Join the Growing Community:

   • https://inkonchain.com/community

   • Follow @inkonchain on X

   • Connect on Telegram

   • Connect on Discord

   • Farcaster/Warpcast

Conclusion: Ink Makes DeFi Effortless

Ink is a breakthrough for Ethereum scalability and decentralized finance. Backed by Kraken, built with the OP Stack, and part of the Superchain—Ink removes complexity while maximizing performance. For builders and users alike, it’s a frictionless gateway to the next generation of onchain finance.

Whether you’re deploying contracts or exploring dApps—Ink is ready.

👉 Start here: https://inkonchain.com

👉 Explore dApps: https://inkonchain.com/apps

📖 Read the Ink Whitepaper (PDF)

DISCLAIMER: Crypto assets carry risk. This article is for informational purposes only and is not financial advice. INKETH is supported in Unity Wallet for sending and receiving but is not a tradable asset.