# Getting started on Optimism Ethereum Mainnet transactions are increasingly becoming expensive. This ongoing crisis birthed layer 2 scaling solutions like [Optimism](https://optimism.io). Transactions are processed on a layer 2 network such as Optimism (a network built on top of Ethereum) instead of occurring directly on mainnet Ethereum. The layer 2 solution submits transactions in groups to the Ethereum Mainnet. They are then secured by Ethereums leading security, significantly reducing end-user fees and increasing transaction speed. Optimism states users can save up to 50x in transaction fees. ## Getting started with Optimism Optimism provides near-instant transactions, lower transaction fees, while providing the same level of security as Ethereum. {% hint style="info" %} The upcoming steps assume you already have setup and funded a web3 wallet on Ethereum Mainnet. Make sure you add the [Optimism network](https://chainid.link/?network=optimism) to your web3 wallet. If you need help with setting up a wallet, please follow our [web3 setup guide](https://blog.kwenta.io/installing-metamask) and fund it with Ether (ETH). {% endhint %} ## Moving assets to Optimism Using Optimism requires users to bridge Ether (ETH) or other supported ERC-20 tokens to the Optimism network. Making use of the official [Optimism Gateway](https://gateway.optimism.io) bridge makes this process simple and intuitive. ![Main Optimism Bridge Screen](https://2231722757-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-MigG4JjHTDtxrb2SknW%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-bb83c9c061acb5fd6b5fcf695c13e3a9c01cbd83%2Fgateway_main.png?alt=media) Connect your wallet by selecting `Connect` and select your web3 wallet provider. Make sure you are connected to `Ethereum Mainnet`. ![Select the connectivity option you would like to use](https://2231722757-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-MigG4JjHTDtxrb2SknW%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-705de0ba8d86fe290e4098ac56b94e5b94962cf3%2Fgateway_select_wallet.png?alt=media) Once you connected your wallet to the Optimism bridge you can choose supported assets and the amount you wish to send over to layer 2 Optimism. ![Official Bridge to Layer 2 Screen](https://2231722757-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-MigG4JjHTDtxrb2SknW%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-1e47838c3891a2517bf9f95e1d733db2ca14960a%2Fgateway_deposit.png?alt=media) Finalize the bridge transaction by selecting `Deposit` and approve the transaction via your connected wallet. ![Deposit en Route Screen](https://2231722757-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-MigG4JjHTDtxrb2SknW%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-a7acd764668db526b124b674b48ffd6423d10f83%2Fgateway_en_route.png?alt=media) The entire bridging process will take about 5-10 minutes, once complete you are ready to interact with dApps on Optimism. ## Withdrawing assets from layer 2 Withdrawing assets back to layer 1 or Ethereum Mainnet can be accomplished via the same [Optimism Gateway](https://gateway.optimism.io). Instead of selecting `Deposit` users instead use the `Withdraw` function. {% hint style="info" %} There are many bridging solutions available. Note that withdrawals processed via the official Optimism bridge are subject to a 7 day challenge period. Withdrawn funds will be unavailable until this 7 day period is complete. Alternatively users can use [other bridges](https://www.optimism.io/apps/bridges) for off-ramp purposes that don't require a 7 day challenge period. {% endhint %} ![Withdraw from Layer 2 Ethereum](https://2231722757-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2F-MigG4JjHTDtxrb2SknW%2Fuploads%2Fgit-blob-7758c98c49229f1e566ac0d3369efd041726b927%2Fgateway_withdraw.png?alt=media) * - Official Bridge, however, withdrawals can take up to 7 days * - Fast Bridge Recommended * - More bridges