Polygon zkEVM Explorer Deep Guide: The Future of Blockchain Explorers Amid Shutdown Turmoil

Introduction to Polygon zkEVM

Polygon zkEVM is a zero-knowledge (ZK) L2 solution launched by Polygon, which combines ZKP with EVM compatibility, maintaining compatibility with Ethereum smart contracts while enhancing scalability and cost efficiency. In Polygon’s vision, zkEVM is an important part of its multi-chain layout (Polygon 2.0).

The core function of the Explorer

Polygon zkEVM Explorer (Block Explorer) is an important window for users to interact with the blockchain. Through the Explorer, users can:

• Query the transaction history of the address and wallet
• View Block Details (Height, Time, Packing Batch)
• Review Smart Contracts (Source Code Verification)
• Analyze dApp activity and capital flow

These features are crucial for ordinary users, project teams, and developers, serving as an important tool for understanding the operational status of the L2 network.

Latest feature updates and optimizations

Polygon zkEVM has launched a custom endpoint update aimed at addressing the discrepancies users face when estimating gas fees. This optimization enhances the user experience, making the actual gas fees paid more consistent with estimates, thereby reducing cost risks. Additionally, the Explorer itself is becoming increasingly rich: for example, the zkEVM browser by CoinStats focuses on wallet transaction history, profit and loss analysis, etc., making user inquiries more intuitive.

Disabling zkEVM: Polygon’s Strategic Transformation

Recently, Polygon announced significant adjustments and will gradually phase out its zkEVM network. Polygon’s executives stated that they will focus their resources on the development of the “AggLayer cross-chain liquidity protocol.” This means that the zkEVM, an old L2, will gradually fade from strategic priority. This shift reflects the evolution of Polygon’s technical roadmap and represents its emphasis on the future of cross-chain ecosystems and interoperability.

Risks and Precautions of Disabling Explorer

• Data access is restricted: Once the official Explorer (such as Polygonscan zkEVM) is retired, users may not be able to access historical transactions through the original browser.
• Export necessary information: Polygonscan has reminded users to export “private name tags” and contract verifications.
• Transfer assets or data: For smart contracts or dApps deployed on zkEVM, developers recommend exporting key data and migrating on-chain data; for regular users, transaction history can also be downloaded or screenshotted.
• Alternative Explorer: Consider using a third-party browser (such as CoinStats) as a backup option to view transactions and assets in the future.

Facing the Future: Polygon 2.0 and Cross-Chain ‒ New Directions for Explorer

Polygon’s long-term vision is Polygon 2.0, which aims to build an interconnected, scalable, and secure cross-chain ecosystem through multiple ZK L2 chains. In the future, the Explorer tool may no longer be limited to a single zkEVM chain, but rather cover multiple Polygon L2 (or L3) networks to achieve cross-chain browsing functionality. Additionally, with the enhancement of cross-chain liquidity and the development of the Aggregation Layer (AggLayer), data visualization, on-chain asset tracking, and cross-chain analysis will become the new core value of the Explorer.