# Getting started

## Introduction

In December 2023 [Cronos](https://cronos.org), a leading open-source blockchain project and ecosystem, announced the launch of Cronos zkEVM Chain public testnet, a zero-knowledge (ZK) layer 2 blockchain network that represents a significant milestone on Cronos' journey towards scalability and mainstream adoption.

Cronos zkEVM is a blockchain network using [ZK Stack](https://zkstack.io/), launched in a partnership between Cronos Labs and engineering teams from Matter Labs (the team behind [ZKsync](https://zksync.io/)), [Crypto.com](https://crypto.com), [VVS Finance](https://vvs.finance/), [Fulcrom Finance](https://fulcrom.finance/en/) and [Veno Finance](https://veno.finance/).

Cronos zkEVM's value proposition includes the following differentiating features:

* Leverages Cronos' vibrant ecosystem of end-users and developers (#CROFam). Utilizes zkCRO, a liquid staked version of CRO, as the gas token.
* Scalable and cost-efficient zero-knowledge proof system leveraging Ethereum security.
* First ZK chain to go live in mainnet besides ZKsync Era, participating in the "end game" of Ethereum scalability.
* "Triple yield" concept supported natively by the DeFi ecosystem: natively yield-bearing cryptocurrencies, DeFi yield, loyalty points.
* Native account abstraction enabling gasless transactions.<br>

To provide feedback, please join the [Discord server](https://discord.com/invite/cronos).