The EVM in plain words
Smart contracts are small programs stored on a blockchain. On Ethereum they are usually written in Solidity and compiled into bytecode that the EVM executes identically on every node. An EVM-compatible chain implements the same execution rules, so contracts and developer tools built for Ethereum can be reused.
Why compatibility matters
- Wallets such as MetaMask can add the network with a few settings.
- Developers can use familiar tools like Hardhat, Foundry and OpenZeppelin libraries.
- Standards like ERC-20 tokens behave the same way, which simplifies exchanges and bridges.
- Explorers and indexers can be adapted from existing open-source software.
What a chain ID is
Every EVM network has a numeric chain ID. It is included in each signed transaction (introduced with EIP-155) so that a transaction signed for one network cannot be replayed on another. Wallets use it to know which network they are connected to.
| Network | Chain ID |
|---|---|
| Ethereum mainnet | 1 |
| BNB Smart Chain | 56 |
| Polygon PoS | 137 |
| DPC Chain (configured) | 2727 |
Before adding a custom network to a wallet, compare its chain ID and RPC URL with the project's official documentation and public registries such as chainlist.org.
The settings a wallet needs
- Network name — a label for you.
- RPC URL — the endpoint your wallet sends requests to.
- Chain ID — the network's unique number.
- Currency symbol — the native coin used for fees.
- Block explorer URL — where transactions can be inspected.
Consensus: who confirms blocks
EVM compatibility describes how contracts run, not how blocks are agreed on. Networks can use different consensus models. Public proof-of-stake chains let anyone stake to validate; permissioned models such as QBFT (used with Hyperledger Besu) rely on a known set of validators that reach agreement with Byzantine fault tolerance and give fast, final blocks.
Example: DPC Chain
DPC Chain is being developed as an EVM-compatible network with chain ID 2727, Hyperledger Besu and QBFT consensus, with DPC as its native coin. RPC, explorer and validators are part of the testnet stage of the roadmap before a public mainnet. Technical details are on the DPC Chain 2727 page and the blockchain overview.
Look at an EVM network in developmentChain ID, client, consensus and roadmap of DPC Chain on one page.
View DPC Chain 2727Frequently asked questions
What does EVM-compatible mean?
It means a blockchain can execute the same smart contract bytecode as Ethereum and supports the same interfaces, so Ethereum wallets, tools and contracts can be reused.
What is a chain ID used for?
The chain ID identifies an EVM network and is part of every signed transaction, which prevents a transaction for one network from being replayed on another.
Is an EVM-compatible chain the same as Ethereum?
No. It runs contracts the same way, but it is a separate network with its own validators, native coin, fees and security.
What is QBFT?
QBFT is a Byzantine fault tolerant consensus protocol used by Hyperledger Besu, where a defined set of validators agree on blocks and blocks are final once added.
This guide is general information, not financial, legal or tax advice. Crypto assets are volatile and can lose value. Check the rules that apply in your country.