> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.rpc.forbole.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.rpc.forbole.com/rpc-api-documentation/guide-to-rpc/endpoints/rpc/optimism.md).

# Optimism

<figure><img src="/files/KD2KmoBsT9qAoXcD1cZC" alt="Optimism Logo"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

## Introduction

The [**Optimism network**](https://www.optimism.io/) is a Layer 2 scaling solution for Ethereum that improves transaction speed and reduces costs while leveraging Ethereum's security. It uses **Optimistic Rollups**, a technology that processes transactions off-chain and posts only summarized data to Ethereum, ensuring scalability without compromising decentralization.

#### Key Features of Optimism:

1. **Layer 2 Scaling**:
   * Optimism offloads transaction processing from Ethereum's mainnet, enabling faster and cheaper transactions.
2. **Optimistic Rollups**:
   * Transactions are processed off-chain under the assumption of validity (optimism). Disputes are resolved on Ethereum only when necessary, minimizing on-chain computation.
3. **Ethereum Compatibility**:
   * Fully compatible with Ethereum's smart contracts and tools, allowing developers to easily migrate or deploy dApps on Optimism.
4. **Low Gas Fees**:
   * By reducing the computational load on Ethereum, Optimism offers significantly lower gas fees for users and developers.
5. **Secure by Ethereum**:
   * Optimism inherits the security and decentralization of Ethereum by anchoring transaction data to the Ethereum blockchain.
6. **Open and Decentralized**:
   * Optimism is an open platform for developers and users, with a commitment to decentralization and transparency.
7. **OP Token**:
   * The native token **OP** is used for governance and incentivizing ecosystem development through the Optimism Collective, a community-driven initiative.
8. **Support for Public Goods**:
   * Optimism is committed to funding open-source projects and public goods, fostering a sustainable and collaborative blockchain ecosystem.

Optimism provides a practical solution for scaling Ethereum while supporting the broader Web3 ecosystem, making it popular for decentralized finance (DeFi), NFTs, and other high-demand applications.

## How to Interact

1. Get your API Key from [Forbole's RPC](https://rpc.forbole.com/).

<figure><img src="/files/eVJfguNPBox9X2qDez9N" alt="DevTools Endpoints"><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

1. Test the query as follow:

```bash
curl https://rpc-mainnet-optimism-fullnode.forbole.com \
  -X POST \
  -H "Content-Type: application/json" \
  -H "apikey: {apiKey}" \
  -d '{"jsonrpc":"2.0","id":1,"method":"eth_blockNumber"}'
```

**Response Example**

```json
{
    "jsonrpc": "2.0",
    "id": 1,
    "result": "0x7ae19e4"
}
```