Getting Started with Quai Network - How to Get QUAI and Explore the Ecosystem
Your complete guide to buying QUAI, setting up a wallet, exploring the ecosystem, and going deeper with mining and development on Quai Network.
Welcome to Quai Network! This is your guide if you want to buy QUAI, move assets onchain, mine QUAI and QI, or build something new.
What Is Quai Network?
Quai Network is a scalable Proof-of-Work (PoW) blockchain ecosystem designed to expand participation without giving up the openness and security that make cryptocurrency valuable. The project began in 2018 as a research effort exploring how a hierarchical, merge-mined architecture could scale PoW systems more effectively.
That research eventually became a broader development effort under Dominant Strategies, introducing ideas such as Proof-of-Entropy-Minima (PoEM), a dual-token model built around QUAI and Qi, and multi-algorithm mining. With mainnet launching on February 4, 2025, Quai moved from an ambitious research project into a live network with real infrastructure and real user pathways.
Step 1: Choose a Quai Wallet
The first step into the ecosystem is setting up a wallet that supports Quai. Depending on how you prefer to manage assets, there are several options available:
- Pelagus Wallet – the official Quai browser extension wallet, supporting both QUAI and QI (use this if you're mining)
- Blip Mobile – mobile QUAI payments app
- Tangem Hardware Wallet – a cold wallet option for users who want stronger physical security
- MetaMask Snap – a MetaMask integration for users who want Quai access within a familiar interface
- Quai CLI – a command-line wallet option for Linux and macOS users
For most new users, Pelagus is the most optimal choice.
Step 2: Get QUAI
Once you have the wallet set up, it's time to get QUAI. On-ramp is flexible depending on your residence and preference.
Buy QUAI on Centralized Exchanges
For many users, the easiest path is through a centralized exchange. QUAI is available on:
And several other CEXes.
Buy QUAI Through Decentralized Exchanges
Users who prefer an onchain route can also access QUAI on Base through decentralized exchanges and aggregators, including:
When buying through decentralized channels, make sure to check the correct contract address for the Quai on Base token:0x5c97D726bf5130AE15408cE32bc764e458320D2f
Use Instant Swap Services
If you want to swap into QUAI without using a traditional exchange account, swap services offer another practical path. Current options include:
These services can be especially useful for users who already hold crypto elsewhere and want a faster route into the Quai ecosystem.
Bridge Assets into Quai
For users moving assets from other networks, Symbiosis currently provides bridging support between Base and Quai, with Ethereum coming soon.
Use a Fiat On-Ramp
For direct fiat purchases, you can use FinchPay.
Step 3: Start Exploring the Ecosystem
One of the strongest aspects of Quai's onboarding experience is that participation does not stop at simply buying the token. Once you have QUAI, there are several ways to begin interacting with the network.
Track Activity and Explore the Chain
If you are new to Quai, the easiest way to get comfortable is by using the ecosystem's network tools:
- QuaiScan.io – block explorer
- Stats.qu.ai – live data on node count, hashrate, and network health
- live.qu.ai – interactive live chain visualizer
- QuaiSwap.io – most popular DEX on Quai
To see what other dApps are out there, check out quai.org/ecosystem.
Learn the Key Concepts Behind Quai
As users spend more time in the ecosystem, it also helps to understand the ideas that make Quai distinct. Some of the most important include:
- Qi, often described as the network's Energy Dollar
- SOAP, the Subsidized Open-market Acquisition Protocol for chain revenue and QUAI buybacks
- PoEM, or Proof-of-Entropy-Minima
Check out our docs to go deeper into any of those: docs.qu.ai
Go Further: Mine or Build on Quai
Once you are comfortable with the basics, Quai offers two clear ways to take a more active role: mining and development.
Mine Quai
Quai Network supports mining with KawPow, SHA-256, and Scrypt. Miners can choose whether to mine QUAI or QI, depending on their strategy and setup.
For solo miners, StratumX offers decentralized mining infrastructure with no fees, no KYC, self-custody, and support for customization. The broader ecosystem also includes setup guides, profitability calculators, pool and software lists, node documentation, and mining statistics.
For users who want to participate directly in the network's operation, mining is one of the most hands-on ways to do it.
Build on Quai
Quai also presents a growing opportunity for developers. The ecosystem includes:
- Quai APIs
- Smart Contract SDK
- Solidity
- Quai Academy
- Developer Discord
- Builder grants
Together, these resources provide a practical starting point for teams and independent builders who want to create dApps, deploy smart contracts, or experiment with Quai's infrastructure.
Where to Find Quai Network
For updates, documentation, and community participation, users can connect with Quai through its official resources:
These channels are the best place to find ecosystem updates, educational materials, technical resources, and community support.
Final Thoughts
You can start with something simple — set up a wallet, buy QUAI, and explore the network through its tools and dashboards. From there, you can go deeper by learning the mechanics of Qi and SOAP, mining the network, or building applications on top of the ecosystem.
If you are curious about Quai, join our Discord and become a part of Quai Nation!
