Aurora
Aurora is an Ethereum-compatible network built on NEAR Protocol offering scalable, low-cost Virtual Chains for decentralized applications.
Overview
Aurora is a Layer 2 blockchain solution built on the NEAR Protocol that provides Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM) compatibility with enhanced scalability and significantly lower transaction costs. It enables developers to deploy Ethereum-based decentralized applications (dApps) with near-native Ethereum compatibility but with faster block times ($0.02 per transaction). Aurora’s core innovation is its Network of Virtual Chains—fully customizable EVM-compatible chains that run as smart contracts on NEAR, allowing developers to launch their own chains quickly without the complexity and cost of traditional Layer 2 setups.
Aurora targets developers who want to leverage Ethereum tooling and smart contracts but need better performance and cost efficiency. It supports standard Ethereum wallets like MetaMask and offers Aurora Pass, a mobile wallet enabling free transactions on Aurora networks. Developers can deploy smart contracts using familiar tools such as Hardhat, and also leverage AI-powered tools like Phron AI for rapid contract development and deployment. For teams needing custom blockchain environments, Aurora Cloud allows launching Virtual Chains with configurable gas fees, permissions, and pre-integrated infrastructure components like validators, oracles, and bridges.
What sets Aurora apart is its seamless integration with the NEAR ecosystem and its ability to offer customizable Virtual Chains that can be deployed in about 30 seconds, making it accessible for projects of all sizes. The platform includes a rich ecosystem of DeFi protocols, exchanges, oracles, and developer tools, including integrations with The Graph, Gnosis Safe, Synapse, and others. Aurora also supports cross-chain asset transfers via the Rainbow Bridge, enabling interoperability between Ethereum and NEAR. Developers can get started by setting up an Ethereum-compatible wallet, connecting to Aurora Mainnet, and deploying contracts or launching Virtual Chains through Aurora Cloud. Comprehensive documentation and active community support are available to assist onboarding and development.
The Problem
Developers building on Ethereum face high transaction fees and network congestion, limiting scalability and increasing costs. Setting up traditional Layer 2 solutions or custom blockchains often involves complex infrastructure and long deployment times, slowing innovation and increasing operational overhead.
The Solution
Key Features
Network of Virtual Chains
A scalable architecture allowing multiple independent EVM-compatible chains running on NEAR, each with its own configuration.
Rainbow Bridge Integration
Enables secure, trustless token transfers between Ethereum and NEAR ecosystems.
AI-Powered Development Tools
Tools like Phron AI and Aurora MCP accelerate smart contract development and deployment.
Pre-Configured Infrastructure Components
Validators, oracles, onramps, and block explorers come ready to use on Virtual Chains, reducing setup time.
Key Strengths
How Developers Use Aurora
Deploying Scalable DeFi Applications
DeFi developers use Aurora to launch Ethereum-compatible dApps with lower fees and faster transactions, improving user experience and reducing operational costs.
Launching Custom Virtual Chains for Specialized dApps
Projects create their own Virtual Chains with tailored gas pricing and permissions to meet specific application needs without managing full blockchain infrastructure.
Cross-Chain Asset Transfers
Users and developers leverage the Rainbow Bridge to move assets seamlessly between Ethereum and NEAR, enabling interoperability and liquidity flows.
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Pricing
Free Tier | Custom Enterprise | |
|---|---|---|
| Price (Monthly) | Free | Custom pricing |
| Price (Annual) | Free | Custom pricing |
| Messaging | N/A | Dedicated support and SLA options |
| Support | Community support via Discord and GitHub | Priority support and consulting |
| Analytics |
Resources
Aurora provides extensive developer resources including detailed documentation, AI-powered development tools, community forums, and active Discord support to help teams build and deploy scalable Ethereum-compatible dApps quickly.