BEP

What Is Binance Evolution Proposal (BEP)?

A Binance Evolution Proposal (BEP) is a set of publicly available technical specifications that define the details of tokens and functionalities on the BNB Chain, similar to Ethereum’s improvement proposals. BEPs establish a unified set of rules for wallets, exchanges, and applications to interact seamlessly.

Think of a BEP as a "rulebook." For example, an on-chain token requires fields such as name, symbol, supply, and transfer methods. The BEP standard clearly outlines these parameters and interfaces. When developers implement tokens according to BEP specifications, wallets can recognize and display them properly, while exchanges can support deposits and withdrawals accurately. Since BEPs are open standards, anyone can review and implement them, fostering an interoperable ecosystem.

How Are BEPs Connected to BNB Chain?

BEPs serve as the technical framework for the BNB Chain, specifying key aspects like address formats, contract interfaces, and network behaviors. Without BEPs, ecosystem-wide collaboration and interoperability would be difficult.

The BNB Chain originated from the early Binance Chain and later BSC (BNB Smart Chain). BNB Smart Chain is EVM-compatible and supports smart contracts. BEPs cover standards for both networks: Binance Chain commonly uses BEP-2, while BNB Smart Chain utilizes BEP-20 and NFT-related standards. Understanding which chain and which BEP standard applies is essential for avoiding network errors.

Terminology tips:

• BNB Chain/BNB Smart Chain: The smart contract network of the BNB ecosystem; addresses typically start with "0x".
• Binance Chain: The original account-based transfer network; addresses often start with "bnb" and may require Memo tags.

How Do BEPs Define Token Standards: BEP-2 vs. BEP-20?

BEP-2 is designed for the early Binance Chain, focusing on simple token issuance and transfers. BEP-20 is used on BNB Smart Chain, aligning its interfaces with ERC-20 and enabling smart contract functionality. The choice depends on the network and intended use case.

On Binance Chain, BEP-2 addresses begin with "bnb" and sometimes require a Memo (similar to a note) for exchange deposits. This standard is suitable for fast, low-cost transfers and early decentralized trading scenarios.

On BNB Smart Chain, BEP-20 addresses begin with "0x", offering full ERC-20 compatibility and supporting interactions with DeFi, GameFi, and other smart contract applications. Most newly launched utility tokens, stablecoins, and application tokens opt for BEP-20 due to its ability to call contract methods and participate in liquidity pools and lending protocols.

The general rule: choose the standard based on the network where your project is deployed. If your contract is on BNB Smart Chain, use BEP-20 for deposits, withdrawals, and on-chain interactions; if circulation is limited to Binance Chain, use BEP-2.

What Are BEP-721 and BEP-1155 in the Context of BEPs?

BEP-721 and BEP-1155 are NFT-related standards defined by BEPs. BEP-721 represents unique digital assets (non-fungible tokens), while BEP-1155 supports both fungible and non-fungible assets—ideal for gaming items and bulk transfers.

Consider BEP-721 as "single collectible cards," each with a distinct ID; think of BEP-1155 as a "warehouse system," able to store batches of identical items (like in-game materials) as well as limited unique items (such as rare skins). Both standards operate on BNB Smart Chain and are widely supported by marketplaces and gaming platforms.

In practice, collectible NFT projects tend to use BEP-721 to emphasize uniqueness and scarcity, while games and utility-based projects prefer BEP-1155 to reduce minting costs and streamline batch operations.

How Are BEPs Used in Transfers and Deposits?

When transferring or depositing assets, BEPs determine which network to use, what address format applies, and how much gas fee is required. Selecting the wrong network may result in assets not being credited automatically—or even becoming unrecoverable.

Step 1: Choose the correct network on Gate’s deposit page. If your token is on BNB Smart Chain, select "BNB Smart Chain (BEP‑20)"; if it’s on Binance Chain, choose "Binance Chain (BEP‑2)." The networks must match on both wallet and exchange sides.

Step 2: Verify address format and tags. BEP‑20 addresses start with "0x" and generally do not require a Memo; BEP‑2 addresses start with "bnb" and some deposits need a Memo or Tag—missing these could prevent crediting.

Step 3: Prepare gas fees and test with small amounts. BEP‑20 transfers usually require a small amount of BNB as gas; for first-time transactions, test with a small amount before making larger transfers.

Step 4: Save transaction hashes and records. Keep TxID, timestamp, and amount information so you can easily trace issues with customer support or blockchain explorers in case of network congestion or deposit delays.

Risk Warning: Do not mix different BEP address formats. For cross-chain bridges, always confirm supported source and destination networks—incorrect choices may result in asset loss or complicated recovery processes.

What Are the Differences Between BEPs and ERC Standards?

BEPs are closely related to ERC standards in terms of interface design but differ by network. BEP‑20 shares nearly identical methods with ERC‑20 but runs on BNB Smart Chain rather than Ethereum; BEP‑2 is native to Binance Chain.

Key differences:

• Compatibility: BEP‑20 leverages many Ethereum tools (EVM-compatible wallets, development frameworks), but chain IDs, nodes, and explorers are different.
• Fees & Performance: Network congestion and transaction costs vary between chains. Typically, EVM-compatible sidechains like BNB Smart Chain have different transaction fees and confirmation times compared to Ethereum mainnet.
• Ecosystem & Liquidity: Asset distribution depends on the network. Cross-network usage requires bridges or off-chain switching via exchanges.

As of H2 2024, many projects issue tokens across multiple chains simultaneously, using contracts or bridges to maintain consistent supply and cross-chain liquidity. However, cross-chain operations must strictly follow supported standards and network requirements.

How Does the BEP Proposal Process & Governance Work?

A typical BEP proposal is drafted by developers or community members, discussed publicly in documents or code repositories, revised based on feedback, then adopted by core teams and validators during network upgrades.

Each proposal documents motivations, technical details, and compatibility considerations. During discussion phases, security and impact are assessed before deployment via version updates or hard forks. Validators handle block production and upgrades; successful proposals require both technical approval and ecosystem consensus. For regular users, it’s most important to pay attention to widely adopted BEP versions supported by wallets and exchanges.

Summary: Key Points for Learning About Binance Evolution Proposals (BEP)

BEPs are foundational to the rules of the BNB Chain, standardizing token issuance, NFTs, and on-chain interactions. Understanding differences between BEP-2 vs. BEP-20 standards, address formats & Memo usage, as well as NFT scenarios for BEP‑721/BEP‑1155 will help you choose the right deposit network on Gate, prepare gas fees correctly, conduct test transfers, and retain TxIDs for tracking. When migrating from Ethereum, remember that "interfaces are similar but chains are different"—use supported bridges or exchanges for network switching when necessary. Keeping up with BEP governance and version changes helps assess a project's technical maturity and ecosystem compatibility.

FAQ

How long does it take for a BEP proposal to be officially adopted?

From submission to official adoption, a BEP proposal usually takes 2–4 weeks of community discussion and review. The exact timeline depends on complexity and community feedback—basic proposals may pass within 1–2 weeks; those involving fundamental changes may require more time. Watch official announcements for progress updates, especially as major proposals can affect wallet or exchange support.

Should I issue my token using BEP‑20 or BEP‑1155?

For standard fungible tokens (like USDT or BUSD), use BEP‑20. If you need multiple asset types or NFT features, opt for BEP‑1155—it supports managing various token types within a single contract, reducing deployment costs. However, BEP‑20 has longer deployment history and broader ecosystem support.

Can I use my BEP-standard tokens cross-chain with Ethereum?

BEP-standard tokens natively operate on the BNB Chain—they can’t be used directly on Ethereum. However, bridge services (such as Binance Bridge) allow you to map BEP‑20 tokens into ERC‑20 equivalents on Ethereum. The bridging process destroys the original token and mints an equal amount on the destination chain; it usually takes 10–30 minutes. Always use official or reputable third-party bridges for safety.

Why should regular users understand the BEP standards?

Understanding BEP standards helps you correctly identify token types, select compatible wallets or exchanges, and avoid loss or failed transactions due to transfer/storage differences between BEP‑20, BEP‑721, etc. When depositing or withdrawing assets, make sure your token uses a supported BEP standard rather than another chain—this is crucial for asset security.

How do I evaluate whether a BEP proposal is worth following?

Focus on whether the proposal addresses real problems, its level of community support, and whether technical feasibility has been fully considered. Proposals worth tracking usually come from core developers or major ecosystem projects with clear improvements outlined—and receive over 80% community approval in voting. Monitor important proposals via Binance's official forums or BNB Chain governance platforms to stay informed about changes that could affect your holdings or transactions.