Optimism is a Layer 2 network designed to help Ethereum scale. Like Arbitrum, it uses optimistic rollups to bundle transactions off the main chain and settle summarised results back to Ethereum, aiming for faster and cheaper transactions while keeping Ethereum security.
Beyond the technology, Optimism is known for an emphasis on funding public goods, the shared tools and infrastructure that benefit the wider ecosystem. Its governance involves the OP token, which relates to decisions about the network and how certain funds are directed.
This entry gives a plain overview of what Optimism is and its approach. It is educational and describes the network and its aims. It does not assess the OP token as an investment or suggest buying or selling anything.