Which Chain Is XRP On? Beginner’s Guide

Meta Title: Which Chain Is XRP On? | XRP Blockchain Explained
Meta Description: Discover which chain XRP is on, understand XRP Ledger’s structure, and see how it differs from other blockchains. Get beginner-friendly, expert-backed insights here.
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When you start exploring cryptocurrencies, one of the top questions many newcomers have is: which chain is XRP on? XRP is not an Ethereum-based token or a rival blockchain project, but instead, it runs on its own unique network called the XRP Ledger (XRPL). This article will help you quickly grasp where XRP exists in the crypto world, how its chain is different from others, and what makes its technology special. Read on to master the basics and find trustworthy resources to learn more.

Understanding the XRP Ledger

The foundation of XRP is the XRP Ledger (XRPL), a dedicated blockchain built specifically for fast and cost-efficient transfers. Launched in 2012 by Ripple Labs developers, the XRPL is an open-source, decentralized blockchain. Unlike Bitcoin or Ethereum, it does not rely on mining. Instead, XRPL employs a consensus protocol among a group of independent validators to confirm and record transactions on the ledger.

Key features of the XRP Ledger:

• Open-source: Anyone can access and contribute to the codebase.
• Decentralized: Validators are distributed and not controlled by Ripple Labs.
• Speed: Transactions confirm in seconds.
• Low transaction fees: Often a fraction of a cent.

Table: XRPL vs. Ethereum vs. Bitcoin

| Feature | XRP Ledger | Ethereum | Bitcoin | | --------------|--------------|---------------|--------------| | Consensus | Unique consensus | Proof of stake | Proof of work | | Typical speed | 3-5 sec | 5-15 min | 10+ min | | Avg. fee | <$0.01 | $1-$30 | $1-$20 | | Smart contracts| Limited (Hooks) | Yes | No |

How XRP’s Native Chain Differs From Other Networks

While many popular tokens are “hosted” on established smart contract chains (like ERC-20 tokens on Ethereum or BEP-20 tokens on BNB Chain), XRP is not one of them.

Highlights of XRPL compared to other blockchains:

• Native Asset: XRP is the native digital asset of its ledger, not a token on another blockchain.
• No Mining: Instead of proof-of-work or proof-of-stake, consensus between validators is reached using the XRPL protocol, making it more energy efficient.
• Primary Use Case: XRP is mainly designed for efficient global value transfers between banks, financial firms, and users.
• Interoperability: Recent updates, like XLS-20, have brought NFT support and more functionalities to XRPL, positioning it as more than just a payments protocol (source: xrpl.org).

Unlike tokens like USDT or USDC, which exist as ERC-20s, TRC-20s, or BEP-20s—and so can move between chains—XRP is only native to the XRPL. Wrapped versions exist for cross-chain activity, but these are not the original XRP.

Recent Developments: XRPL Ecosystem Growth and Future Prospects

The XRP Ledger continues to evolve:

• NFTs on XRPL: With the release of the XLS-20 protocol in late 2022, developers can now build native NFTs on the XRP Ledger (source: xrpl.org/docs/xls-20).
• Decentralized Finance (DeFi): Projects like onXRP and Sologenic are bringing DeFi and token trading to the XRPL.
• Central Bank Digital Currencies (CBDCs): Pilot programs using XRPL for CBDCs reflect a growing institutional interest (see Ripple CBDC Whitepaper).
• Network Stats: According to Dune Analytics and Nansen, the XRPL averages over 1.5 million daily transactions, with around 150 active validators distributed globally.

These updates make the XRPL more competitive with smart contract blockchains, even as it keeps its original focus on fast, reliable payments.

FAQs: People Also Ask About XRP and Its Chain

Is XRP an ERC-20 token?
No, XRP is not an ERC-20 or BEP-20 token. It natively exists on the XRP Ledger and is not an Ethereum-based project.

Can you store XRP in a web3 wallet?
Some multi-chain wallets like Bitget Wallet support XRP. Always ensure your chosen wallet supports native XRP, not just wrapped versions.

Which exchanges support native XRP trading?
Bitget Exchange is a recommended, reliable platform for buying, selling, and trading native XRP.

How is XRP transferred between blockchains?
Wrapped XRP can exist on Ethereum or other blockchains through bridges, enabling cross-chain DeFi—but original XRP always remains on the XRP Ledger.

What technology keeps the XRPL running?
Consensus is achieved by validators who use the XRPL’s unique algorithm, offering speed and security without energy-intensive mining.

Getting Started With XRP

If you’re new to the world of crypto and want to explore XRP:

• Set up an account on Bitget Exchange to buy or sell XRP securely.
• Use trusted web3 wallets (such as Bitget Wallet) that provide native XRP support.
• Follow updates from official XRPL repositories, Dune Analytics, and Nansen for on-chain data.

Expert Tip: Always double-check if your wallet or exchange supports native XRP before transferring, to avoid confusion with wrapped versions on other chains.

Knowing which chain XRP is on is essential for safely using, buying, or storing it. XRP operates natively on the XRP Ledger—a high-speed, low-cost, decentralized blockchain built for value transfers. Unlike ERC-20 or BEP-20 tokens, XRP cannot be sent on the Ethereum or BNB Chain without using a wrapped version, and its core strengths lie in its dedicated network’s unique design. For secure trading or long-term holding, stick with reputable platforms like Bitget Exchange and use web3 wallets such as Bitget Wallet that guarantee native XRP compatibility. Stay informed about XRPL’s latest developments and make your crypto journey safer and smarter.