Scalability
Advanced
What is
Sidechain?
A separate blockchain connected to a main chain, enabling specialized functionality while inheriting security.
Sidechains are independent blockchains that can transfer assets to/from a main chain via a two-way peg. They enable experimentation and scaling without changing the main chain. Ergo's NiPoPoWs enable efficient sidechain verification without requiring full chain downloads.
Key Points
- Separate chain linked to main chain
- Two-way peg for asset transfers
- Can have different rules/features
- NiPoPoWs enable light verification
- Enables scaling and experimentation
- Inherits security from main chain
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Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about Sidechain
Common questions about this topic
Is Ergo a good investment?
This is not financial advice. Ergo has strong fundamentals: fair launch (no VC dump risk), innovative technology (eUTXO, Sigma Protocols, NiPoPoWs), active development, and a cypherpunk ethos. It's a smaller market cap project with higher risk/reward than established chains. Research thoroughly, understand the technology, and never invest more than you can afford to lose.
Comparison
Getting Started
How to get started with Ergo?
Start by getting a wallet (Nautilus for browser, Terminus for mobile). Back up your seed phrase securely offline. Get some ERG from an exchange (Gate.io, KuCoin) or DEX (Spectrum). Make a test transaction. Then explore: try DeFi on Spectrum, check out NFTs, or dive into the technology if you're a builder.
How-to
Getting Started
What can I do with Ergo?
Ergo supports a full ecosystem: trade on Spectrum DEX, use SigmaUSD stablecoin, mix transactions with ErgoMixer, collect NFTs on SkyHarbor, mine with GPUs, lend/borrow on DuckPools, bridge to other chains via Rosen, and build dApps with ErgoScript. It's a complete platform for decentralized finance and applications.
Explainer
Getting Started
Is Ergo mining profitable in 2025?
Ergo mining profitability depends on your electricity cost, GPU efficiency, and ERG price. Use mining calculators with your specific hardware and power costs. Ergo is one of the most profitable GPU-mineable coins due to Autolykos being ASIC-resistant. Profitability improves significantly with cheap electricity.
Explainer
Mining