Beginner Guide
What Is Stellar Lumens (XLM)?
Stellar is a blockchain network built to move and represent value. XLM, also called Lumens, is the network's native asset and is used within the Stellar ecosystem.
What does Stellar do?
Stellar is designed for transferring value between people, businesses, and financial applications. It can support payments, tokenized assets, and cross-border transfers while allowing different assets to move across the same network.
What is XLM used for?
XLM is the native asset of the Stellar network. It can be held, transferred, and used in network activity. It also helps the network operate by supporting account and transaction requirements.
Are Stellar and Lumens the same thing?
Not exactly. Stellar is the network. Lumens (XLM) are the network's native asset. People often use the names interchangeably in casual conversation, which causes confusion.
What should a beginner understand first?
- XLM is a cryptocurrency, so its market price can be highly volatile.
- Owning XLM is different from using the Stellar network itself.
- Wallet security and correct destination details matter when sending crypto.
- Third-party exchanges and apps have their own fees, rules, and risks.
Ready for the next step?
See where beginners can buy XLM and what to compare before choosing an exchange.
Where can I buy XLM?Educational information only. This page is not financial, investment, legal, or tax advice.