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What Are Gas Fees?

Gas fees are the cost of using a blockchain. Learn why they change and how to pay less.

What gas is

On networks such as Ethereum, every transaction needs computing work from the network. Gas is the fee you pay for that work, paid in the network's coin.

Why fees change

Block space is limited. When many people want to transact, they bid higher fees to be included sooner, so costs rise during busy periods and fall when it is quiet.

Ways to pay less

Transact when the network is quiet, use a layer-2 network where fees are lower, and avoid unnecessary approvals and failed transactions, which still cost gas.

Exchange withdrawals

When you withdraw from an exchange to a wallet, the network fee is shown before you confirm. Choosing a cheaper supported network can reduce it, but always make sure the receiving address supports that network.

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Educational content only, not financial advice. Crypto assets carry a high risk of loss.

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