Supported Networks
Moonwell operates on five blockchain networks. Each one offers different benefits for lending and borrowing.
Base
Base is the primary network for Moonwell. It's a Layer 2 built by Coinbase that operates on top of Ethereum.
Benefits:
Very low transaction fees
Fast transaction confirmation
The largest base of users and assets on Moonwell
A good choice if you're new to Moonwell
Gas token: You'll need ETH on Base to pay transaction fees.
Ethereum Mainnet
Ethereum Mainnet is the Layer 1 network that Base and OP Mainnet settle to. It's the most established and secure network, with the deepest liquidity, though gas fees are typically higher than on Layer 2 networks.
Benefits:
Deep liquidity and broad asset support
The strongest security and decentralization
Access to the wider Ethereum ecosystem
A good fit for larger positions, where higher gas fees matter less
Gas token: You'll need ETH on Ethereum to pay transaction fees.
OP Mainnet
OP Mainnet is a Layer 2 that uses Optimistic rollup technology. It also operates on top of Ethereum.
Benefits:
Low transaction fees
Fast transactions
EVM compatible, so familiar tools work well
A strong developer ecosystem
Gas token: You'll need ETH on OP Mainnet to pay transaction fees.
Moonbeam
Moonbeam is a parachain on the Polkadot network. It's fully compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), so it feels familiar if you've used Ethereum tools.
Benefits:
Built on the Polkadot ecosystem
EVM compatible
Access to Polkadot network liquidity
A growing community
Gas token: You'll need GLMR (Moonbeam's native token) to pay transaction fees.
Moonriver
Moonriver is a canary network on Kusama. Think of a canary network as a testing ground for new features before they reach the main network. Moonriver hosts Moonwell Apollo, an earlier version of the protocol.
Benefits:
A canary network for Moonbeam
Good for testing and experimentation
Lower overall costs than Moonbeam
Community participation in testing
Gas token: You'll need MOVR (Moonriver's native token) to pay transaction fees.
Choosing Your Network
Start here: If you're new to Moonwell, Base is the recommended choice. It has the most users, the most assets, and the lowest fees.
Experienced users: If you already use another network, you can connect directly to it.
Larger positions: Ethereum Mainnet offers the deepest liquidity and strongest security, with higher gas fees.
Next Steps
Once you've chosen your network, connect your wallet to get started.