> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://optim-finance.gitbook.io/optim-finance/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://optim-finance.gitbook.io/optim-finance/leviathan/english/core-concepts/layer-2.md).

# Layer 2

Layer 2 solutions are protocols that operate on top of a Layer 1 blockchain. They leverage the security and decentralization of the underlying network while addressing its limitations by handling transactions off-chain or in a more optimized manner. These solutions then periodically consolidate these transactions onto the main blockchain. This approach reduces the burden on the Layer 1 network, enabling faster transaction speeds and lower costs.