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What Is Avalanche?
A practical overview of Avalanche, AVAX gas, EVM compatibility, wallets, explorers, and chain confusion.
Network map
What this means
Avalanche is a blockchain ecosystem where the C-Chain is EVM-compatible and commonly used with wallets like MetaMask.
Core ideas
What to understand first
- AVAX is used as the native gas token.
- Avalanche C-Chain is EVM-compatible.
- Avalanche has multiple chain concepts, which can confuse users.
- Tokens on Avalanche are separate from tokens on Ethereum or BSC.
User checklist
What to check before moving assets
- Confirm you are using Avalanche C-Chain when using EVM wallets.
- Keep AVAX for gas.
- Use trusted Avalanche explorers.
- Check exchange deposit and withdrawal networks carefully.
Risk note
Common mistakes to avoid
- Confusing Avalanche chains can lead to transfer mistakes.
- Fake AVAX token contracts can copy names.
- Bridge and exchange network mistakes are common.