General
What is Cronos?
Cronos is an EVM-compatible blockchain optimized for DeFi, NFTs, gaming and high-performance dApps. Because it follows the Ethereum execution model, the same developer tooling applies: Solidity, Hardhat, Foundry, and standard wallet libraries all work out of the box.
If you’re new to the ecosystem, start with the Getting started overview or dig into the conceptual foundations in Background.
What is Cronos Wallet?
Cronos Wallet is a secure, non-custodial desktop wallet for interacting with the Cronos network. It allows you to store assets, sign transactions and connect to dApps with a streamlined UX across both testnet and mainnet.
To install the wallet, follow the installation guide or head to the Downloads section on the main site.
Is there a mobile version?
If mobile builds are available, they will appear next to desktop releases on the Downloads section of the homepage. All instructions in the docs currently focus on the desktop application.
Wallet & security
Is Cronos Wallet custodial?
No. Cronos Wallet is fully non-custodial. Your private keys and seed phrase are generated and stored locally — they never leave your device, and the team cannot access or recover them.
What happens if I lose my device?
As long as you have your seed phrase, you can restore your wallet on a new device through the onboarding flow (Import wallet).
If both the device and the seed phrase are lost, access to the wallet cannot be recovered.
How should I store my seed phrase?
Best practices include:
- Write it down on paper or use a metal backup plate.
- Store backups in at least two secure, separate locations.
- Avoid digital storage: screenshots, cloud notes and chat apps are unsafe.
Someone asked me for my seed phrase — what should I do?
Never share your seed phrase under any circumstances. Support teams will never request it, and any such request is a scam. End the conversation immediately.
Networks & fees
What’s the difference between mainnet and testnet?
Mainnet handles real assets and irreversible transactions. Testnet is a safe environment for experimentation, development and wallet testing, using low-value or faucet tokens.
For network parameters and setup steps, see Getting started and the environment configuration examples in Developer tutorials & resources.
Why do I have to pay fees?
Transaction fees (“gas”) compensate the network for execution and secure the chain. Cronos Wallet estimates recommended gas values automatically, but you can always review and confirm them before signing.
Why is my transaction pending?
Common reasons include:
- high network activity;
- gas price set too low relative to current conditions;
- temporary RPC or local connectivity issues.
Most pending transactions resolve within a few blocks. If delays persist, verify your network settings and connection in Cronos Wallet.
Developers
How do I deploy a smart contract to Cronos?
Deployment workflows mirror Ethereum:
- create a Hardhat or Foundry project;
- add Cronos RPC endpoints and chain IDs;
- fund your deployment address with CRO for gas;
- run your deployment script on testnet or mainnet.
See Smart contracts for configuration snippets and recommended patterns.
Can I reuse my Ethereum contracts?
Yes — the network is EVM-compatible. Most Solidity contracts work without modification. However, integrations such as price feeds, oracles or protocol adapters may require Cronos-specific adjustments.
Where should I start if I’m new to EVM development?
A recommended path:
- Begin with Background for core concepts.
- Follow the practical learning track in Developer tutorials & resources.
- Deploy a simple contract using patterns from Smart contracts.
What should I consider before going to mainnet?
Before launching user-facing dApps:
- ensure full test coverage, including edge cases;
- validate your flows on testnet first;
- consider external code reviews or audits for critical components.