What is Polygon (MATIC)?

How do you use the Polygon network?

The Polygon network allows you to do many of the same things the main Ethereum network allows, but with fees that are often a fraction of a cent. You can try decentralized exchanges like QuikSwap or SushiSwap, yield-generating lending and savings protocols like Aave, NFT markets like OpenSea, or even “no-loss prize games” like Pooltogether. 

To try the Polygon network, you need to send some crypto to a compatible crypto wallet like Coinbase Wallet. You can then “bridge” some of your crypto — stablecoins are a popular choice for this — to the Polygon network. You’ll also need to bridge some MATIC to make transactions, but even a dollar’s worth is plenty because fees are so low. 

Low fees and near-instant transactions make the Polygon network an excellent way to gain some real-world experience trying out DeFi protocols. (Remember that DeFi can be highly volatile — so start small and don’t invest more than you can afford to lose, especially as a beginner.)