Moonwell operates on five blockchain networks. Each one offers different benefits for lending and borrowing, and each holds its own separate markets. Your wallet address stays the same across all of them, so you can move between networks and use the same account.

You don't have to use every network. Most people pick one based on where their assets already are and the fees they're comfortable with. (See Choosing Your Network below.)

Several of Moonwell's networks are Layer 2 blockchains. A Layer 2 is built on top of Ethereum. It processes transactions separately and settles on the main network periodically, which gives you fast transactions and low fees without giving up the security of the underlying chain.

In practice, this means a transaction that might be costly on Ethereum mainnet can cost a fraction as much on a Layer 2 like Base.

Every network charges a small fee, called gas, to process transactions. You pay gas in that network's native token, so it's worth holding a small amount before you start. Each network section below lists its gas token.

Base is the primary network for Moonwell. It's a Layer 2 built by Coinbase that operates on top of Ethereum.

Benefits:

Gas token: You'll need ETH on Base to pay transaction fees.

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:

Gas token: You'll need ETH on Ethereum to pay transaction fees.

OP Mainnet is a Layer 2 that uses Optimistic rollup technology. It also operates on top of Ethereum.

Benefits:

Gas token: You'll need ETH on OP Mainnet to pay transaction fees.

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:

Gas token: You'll need GLMR (Moonbeam's native token) to pay transaction fees.

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:

Gas token: You'll need MOVR (Moonriver's native token) to pay transaction fees.

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.

You can move between networks at any time by switching networks in your wallet and refreshing Moonwell. Your funds don't move automatically; each network holds its own balances.

Do my assets move between networks automatically?

No. Each network holds separate markets and balances. To move funds, you bridge or transfer them. USDC can move across chains to and from the Base network with USDC Anywhere.

Can I use the same wallet on every network?

Yes. Your wallet address is identical across networks. You just switch the active network in your wallet.

Why does Moonwell support multiple networks?

Different networks suit different needs: lower fees, deeper liquidity, or access to a particular ecosystem. Supporting several lets you choose what works for you.

What if I'm on the wrong network?

Moonwell only shows markets for your active network. If something looks missing, check that your wallet is set to the network you intend to use.