Edited By
Michael O'Connor

A newcomer to crypto is seeking assistance after mistakenly buying SOL on the Cronos chain instead of the Solana network. They reported their predicament on forums, drawing a mix of responses from seasoned investors.
The user shared, "I bought it when I was busy, so I didn't double check. It wonβt let me swap back to the 'real' SOL and Iβm on Crypto.com onchain. What should I do?" This highlights a common issue for beginners in the crypto worldβlack of attention during transactions.
Many comments from the community aimed to clarify the confusion:
Right Coin, Wrong Network: Multiple respondents noted that the user had acquired the correct cryptocurrency but on the wrong blockchain. "Itβs Sol on Cronos chain," stated one user.
Bridging Solutions: Users suggested buying the gas token for Cronos (CRO) to facilitate bridging SOL back to Solana. One advised, "Buy 5 CRO and then youβre good to bridge. Cronos gas fees are next to nothing."
Mixed Sentiments about SOL's Future: Supporters of Solana weighed in, with comments like, "Solana is the future. Thank me in five years," hinting at the asset's long-term potential despite current challenges.
Users echoed, "Well, you bought SOL; itβs just on another ecosystem."
Despite the hope expressed by some, the beginner faced hurdles in their attempt to convert their tokens back into a usable form. One comment noted, "It isnβt itβs Cronos, and I canβt swap it to anything and I canβt even sell it." This raises concerns about liquidity and usability on lesser-known chains for novice traders.
π‘ Beginner Struggles: Newcomers often make mistakes due to inexperience.
π Bridging Necessities: A clear understanding of protocols for moving assets is crucial.
π Potential for SOL: Many believe in SOL's long-term viability, yet short-term frustrations persist.
In an evolving market, understanding the differences between networks can save future buyers from similar mishaps. Will this situation spark a dialogue about better education for new investors? Only time will tell.
As this beginner navigates their situation, there's a strong chance that discussions around user education in crypto will gain momentum. With many new participants entering the market, experts estimate around 60% will encounter similar transactional mistakes. Increased focus from platforms on simplifying user experiences and offering better educational resources could emerge. Additionally, bridging protocols might see enhancements, making it easier for users to navigate different chains. As the demand for clarity grows, exchanges may prioritize features that cater to novice investors to foster a safer trading environment.
A striking parallel can be drawn from the late 1990s during the initial dot-com boom. Many investors rushed into tech stocks, often without understanding the underlying technology or market dynamics. Just as some fledgling crypto buyers today misstep with tokens on the wrong networks, numerous investors back then bought shares of companies with minimal groundwork, leading to significant financial losses. This situation reminds us that across all financial frontiers, there is an unending need for informed decision-making and awareness of the digital landscape.