Polygon, previously known as Matic Network, is a platform built to scale the Ethereum network and foster its infrastructure development. It is Ethereum-compatible, and it's designed to facilitate a future where different blockchains no longer operate as isolated islands but rather as networks that fit into a more connected and interoperable ecosystem. Polygon is used for launching interoperable blockchains that can either be standalone chains or leverage the security of Ethereum's network. It aims to provide scalable and efficient solutions to Ethereum's limitations, including slow speeds and high gas costs.

The native token of Polygon is MATIC, which is used for participating in the network governance, staking, and paying gas fees. The Polygon ecosystem is made up of a diverse range of participants including users, developers, validators, and node operators.