It’s time to swap your BNB on the BSC network

Starting on BSC chain

binance logo black - trade on BSC with BNB

Binance Smart Chain (BSC) is a fast, low-cost blockchain powering the next generation of DeFi and crypto innovation. With smart contract support, EVM compatibility, and deep Binance integration, BSC delivers speed, scale, and reliability, making it a go-to hub for developers, traders, and builders in the Web3 space.

Getting Started
Binance Smart Chain (BSC)

Binance Smart Chain (BSC) has rapidly emerged as a leading blockchain platform, offering users and developers a high-performance environment for decentralized applications (DApps) and decentralized finance (DeFi) solutions.
Launched by Binance, one of the world’s largest cryptocurrency exchanges, BSC combines speed, efficiency, and compatibility to provide a seamless blockchain experience.

Understanding Binance Smart Chain (BSC)

Binance Smart Chain is a blockchain network designed to run parallel to Binance Chain, enabling smart contract functionality and compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM).
This dual-chain architecture allows users to build decentralized applications while taking advantage of Binance Chain’s fast transaction capabilities.

Key Features of BSC

  • EVM Compatibility: BSC’s compatibility with the Ethereum Virtual Machine means developers can easily port their Ethereum-based applications to BSC without significant modifications.

  • Low Transaction Fees: One of BSC’s standout features is its low transaction costs, making it an attractive option for both developers and users.

  • High Performance: BSC is designed for high performance, supporting a large number of transactions per second, which is crucial for DApps that require fast and efficient operations.

  • Cross-Chain Compatibility: The dual-chain architecture facilitates seamless asset transfers between Binance Chain and BSC, enhancing interoperability within the Binance ecosystem.

BSC, Binance Chain, and BNB Chain: Clarifying the Terminology

The Binance ecosystem comprises multiple chains, leading to some confusion regarding their names and functions.

  • Binance Chain: Launched in April 2019, Binance Chain focuses on high-speed transactions and is the backbone of Binance’s decentralized exchange (DEX).

  • Binance Smart Chain (BSC): Introduced in September 2020, BSC runs parallel to Binance Chain, adding smart contract functionality and EVM compatibility.

  • BNB Chain: In February 2022, Binance rebranded its blockchain ecosystem to BNB Chain, encompassing both Binance Chain (now BNB Beacon Chain) and Binance Smart Chain (now BNB Smart Chain).
    This rebranding emphasizes BNB’s role beyond Binance, highlighting its position as a community-driven, open-source, and decentralized ecosystem.

Therefore, when people refer to Binance Chain, BSC, or BNB Chain, they are discussing different components of Binance’s blockchain infrastructure, with BNB Chain serving as the overarching ecosystem.

Getting Started with BSC

To begin your journey on Binance Smart Chain, follow these steps:

1. Set Up a BSC-Compatible Wallet

Choose a cryptocurrency wallet that supports BSC. Popular options include MetaMask, Trust Wallet, and SafePal.
Ensure you configure the wallet to connect to BSC by adding the network details manually.

2. Acquire BNB Tokens

BNB is the native cryptocurrency of BSC and is used to pay for transaction fees.
You can purchase BNB on most major cryptocurrency exchanges and then transfer it to your BSC-compatible wallet.

3. Explore BSC DApps

With your wallet set up and funded, you can start interacting with the many DApps available on BSC.
Whether you’re interested in DeFi platforms, NFT marketplaces, or blockchain games, BSC offers a wide range of decentralized apps to explore.

Conclusion

Binance Smart Chain stands out as a versatile and efficient blockchain platform, catering to the growing demands of decentralized applications and finance.
Its compatibility with Ethereum, low transaction fees, and high performance make it a compelling choice for developers and users alike.
Understanding the distinctions between Binance Chain, BSC, and BNB Chain is key to navigating the Binance ecosystem effectively.
As BSC continues to grow, it opens up exciting opportunities for innovation and participation in the decentralized future.

Should I use a hot or a cold wallet to store my crypto

It really depends on how you plan to use your crypto on the BNB Chain (BSC).
If you’re actively trading BNB or BEP-20 tokens on a daily basis, it’s more practical to keep your assets in a hot walletfor quick access and faster transactions.

However, if you’re making consistent profits or holding larger amounts, it’s a smart move to transfer those earnings to a cold wallet for enhanced security and long-term storage.

Is a hot wallet safe to use

Yes, hot wallets are generally safe for everyday use—but there are important risks to be aware of.
If you lose your private key and switch to a new device, you won’t be able to recover your wallet or access your funds—they’ll be lost permanently.

Additionally, because hot wallets are connected to the internet, there’s always a small risk of being hacked if your device is compromised.
For that reason, it’s crucial to store your private key securely and avoid keeping large amounts in a hot wallet for extended periods.

I see multiple chains in my wallet but only use BNB so I can trade on BSC

Most wallets support multiple blockchains, which is why you might see networks like Ethereum, BSC, or others listed in your wallet.
However, it’s extremely important to always select the correct network when transferring funds between wallets.

If you send BNB or BEP-20 tokens to an incompatible address or use the wrong chain, there’s a high risk of losing your funds permanently.
Always double-check the network and wallet address before confirming any transaction.

I use a CEX to store my crypto do I need a wallet

No—when you use a centralized exchange (CEX), the exchange itself acts as your crypto wallet.
While it’s convenient for trading, we strongly recommend storing the majority of your assets in a cold wallet for added security.

This way, even if the exchange is ever hacked or experiences downtime, your funds remain safe and under your full control.

Seed phrase or private key what is the difference

Your private key is what gives you direct access to your specific blockchain wallet address, while your seed phrase is a backup that lets you recover your entire wallet if it’s ever lost or deleted.

Think of the private key as your password, and the seed phrase as your master recovery key—both are critical for keeping control of your crypto assets.

BSC Logo - Binance Logo - BNB Logo