0x Protocol (ZRX) is a decentralized exchange infrastructure designed to facilitate peer-to-peer trading of tokenized assets on the Ethereum blockchain. Launched in 2017 by co-founders Will Warren and Amir Bandeali, the protocol allows developers to integrate decentralized exchange (DEX) functionalities directly into their applications, offering a more modular and flexible trading solution. The primary feature of 0x is its use of off-chain order relays combined with on-chain settlement, which significantly reduces transaction costs and improves efficiency.
The protocol operates on a system of "relayers" who host and manage off-chain order books, providing liquidity by matching buyers and sellers. Once an order is agreed upon, only the final settlement occurs on-chain, minimizing the need for gas fees. This design allows for a scalable and cost-effective approach to trading, compared to traditional on-chain DEX systems.
The native token, ZRX, serves two main purposes within the 0x ecosystem:
Since its inception, 0x has gone through multiple updates and versions, adding new features such as support for non-fungible tokens (NFTs) and expanding its compatibility across different blockchains. This application-agnostic approach has made 0x a key player in the DeFi (Decentralized Finance) sector, enabling projects to leverage its infrastructure for creating decentralized marketplaces, financial products, and more.