$SOL **$SOL** is the native token of Solana, a high-performance blockchain launched in 2020 to prioritize speed, scalability, and low-cost transactions. Using a hybrid consensus mechanism (Proof of History + Proof of Stake), Solana processes thousands of transactions per second (TPS) with fees under a fraction of a cent. SOL fuels network operations, including paying for transactions, staking for network security, and participating in governance. Known for its robust ecosystem, Solana hosts decentralized apps (dApps), NFTs, and DeFi protocols. Despite outages and centralization critiques, SOL remains a top 10 cryptocurrency by market cap, driven by its tech promise and institutional backing. Its growth reflects demand for scalable blockchain solutions amid Ethereum’s congestion.