How to Bridge to The Open Network (TON)

The TON Network offers seamless cross-chain transfers with minimal fees and robust security. This guide walks you through the process of bridging your assets to TON and leveraging its capabilities.

The TON Network, or The Open Network (TON), is a decentralized blockchain developed by the creators of Telegram. It boasts high scalability, fast transaction speeds, and supports smart contracts. Bridging your assets to TON unlocks a host of opportunities within this vibrant ecosystem. Here's how to do it.

The TON Network is a Layer-1 blockchain designed to handle mass-scale applications and transactions efficiently. Its native token, Toncoin (TON), powers various applications within the ecosystem, including Telegram wallets, NFT marketplaces, and decentralized apps.

What makes TON unique is its integration with Telegram, providing a seamless user experience for crypto transactions. By bridging your assets to TON, you can access its advanced features and the TON ecosystem’s growing community.

TON DeFi TVL | Source: DefiLlama

The TON network has seen its DeFi TVL (total value locked) rise steadily, especially since April. At the time of writing, the TON blockchain enjoys a TVL of over $677 million. The runaway success of Telegram games onboarding its ecosystem, such as Notcoin, Hamster Kombat, and TapSwap have contributed to this strong surge in the TON ecosystem among DeFi investors.

Key Advantages of the TON Network

Minimal Fees: The TON Bridge charges a flat fee of 1 TON for transfers, along with the destination blockchain's transaction fee.
High Scalability: TON can handle a high volume of transactions, making it suitable for large-scale applications.
Fast Transactions: Enjoy quick transfers and interactions within the TON ecosystem.

Here’s a step-by-step guide on how you can bridge your assets to the TON network from Ethereum and explore the TON ecosystem:

Step 1: Prepare Your Wallets

MetaMask: Download and install MetaMask from metamask.io. Ensure it has sufficient ETH for transaction fees.

Here’s how to set up your MetaMask wallet.

Tonkeeper: Install the Tonkeeper browser extension for managing your TON addresses. Create a new address or log in to an existing one.

Learn how to create a Tonkeeper wallet.

Step 2: Access the TON Bridge

Visit bridge.ton.org and click "Connect Wallet." Connect your MetaMask and Tonkeeper to the platform.

Step 3: Transfer from Ethereum to TON

Source: blog.ton.cat

Select Token and Amount: Choose the token you want to transfer (e.g., USDT) and enter the amount. Input your TON wallet address in the "Receiving Address" field.
Approve Transaction: Click "Approve" to authorize the bridge to use your USDT. Confirm the transaction in MetaMask.
Initiate Transfer: Once approved, click "Transfer" and confirm the transaction in MetaMask. Wait for 65 blocks to be confirmed on the Ethereum network.
Receive Tokens: After confirmation, click "Get USDT" and pay the 1 TON fee in Tonkeeper. Wait for the transfer to complete and check your TON wallet for the received tokens.

Step 4: Transfer from TON to Ethereum

Source: blog.ton.cat

Select Token and Amount: On bridge.ton.org, choose the direction for the bridge. Select the token (e.g., jUSDT) and enter the amount. Provide your Ethereum wallet address.
Initiate Transfer: Click "Transfer" and confirm the transaction. Follow any additional prompts to complete the transfer back to Ethereum.

Verifying Token Authenticity

Verify the addresses of received tokens on tonscan.org to ensure authenticity. This prevents falling for scam tokens created by fraudsters.

Fee Structure

The TON Bridge charges a flat fee of 1 TON per transfer. Additionally, the destination blockchain's transaction fee applies (e.g., ETH for Ethereum, BNB for Binance Smart Chain).

For alternative transfer methods with minimal fees, consider using Layerswap, which supports multiple blockchains and wallets within the TON ecosystem.

Why Use Layerswap?

Minimal Fees and Fast Transfers: Enjoy affordable and quick transfers, making it easy to move your assets.
Wide Range of Supported Chains: Layerswap supports various blockchains and exchanges, including those not typically available on other platforms.
Variety of TON Wallets: Fully supports all wallets within the TON ecosystem, including Telegram Wallet and Tonkeeper.
User-Friendly Experience: Simplified process with just a few clicks.
Dedicated Assistance: Personalized support for any questions or issues during your transaction.

Here’s an easy tutorial on bridging your USDT assets to the TON network using Layerswap:

Step 1: Fill in the Transfer Details

Select the Source Network or Exchange: Choose the network or exchange from which you want to transfer USDT.
Choose the Asset: Select USDT as the asset you want to transfer.
Enter the Amount: Specify the amount of USDT you wish to transfer.

Step 2: Connect Your TON Wallet

Select Your Wallet: Choose your preferred TON wallet (e.g., Telegram Wallet, Tonkeeper).
Autofill Your Address: Connect your TON wallet to autofill the receiving address.

Step 3: Initiate the Transfer

Choose the Transfer Method: Select whether you want to transfer via wallet or deposit address.
Click “Swap Now”: Confirm the details and click “Swap now” to start the transfer process.

Bridging assets to the TON Network is a secure and straightforward process facilitated by the official TON Bridge. Despite the potential for high Ethereum gas fees, the TON Bridge offers a reliable method for transferring USDT, USDC, and DAI between other blockchain networks and TON. By following this guide, you can efficiently manage your cross-chain token transfers and explore the diverse functionalities of the TON ecosystem.

1. What is the estimated time for a bridging transaction to complete?

The transaction time for bridging assets to the TON network can vary depending on network congestion. Typically, it takes a few minutes, but it could extend if the networks are busy.

2. What are the fees for transferring assets to TON via different bridges?

The fees for transferring assets to the TON network can include a flat fee and the gas fees of the originating network. For instance, the official TON Bridge charges a flat fee of 1 TON and you will also incur the Ethereum network’s gas fees. Fees may vary slightly with different bridges like Layerswap or Orbit Bridge.

3. How can I use USDT across the TON ecosystem?

Once you bridge USDT to the TON network, you can use it for various purposes such as making transactions, participating in decentralized finance (DeFi) activities, and exploring applications within the TON ecosystem, including Telegram wallets and NFT marketplaces.

4. Can I bridge tokens other than USDT to the TON network?

Yes, you can bridge various tokens to the TON network, including USDC, DAI, and WETH. Ensure the bridge service you are using supports the specific tokens you intend to transfer. Popular bridges like TON Bridge and Layerswap support a range of tokens.

5. How can I move USDC to TON?

To move USDC to the TON network, follow the same steps as for USDT. Fill in the transfer details on Layerswap, connect your TON wallet, choose the transfer method, and initiate the transfer. This process supports a variety of blockchains and ensures a smooth transition.