Axelar (AXL) is used in several key ways within the Axelar network:

1. Staking and Security: Tokenholders stake AXL to contribute to network security and earn rewards in return. This staking process helps maintain the security of the network by incentivizing validators to participate and ensure the integrity of transactions.

2. Governance: AXL holders can vote on proposals such as parameter changes or protocol upgrades, allowing them to participate in the governance of the network.

3. Transaction Fees: AXL is used to pay transaction fees, but network users do not need to hold the token themselves. The backend smart contracts handle conversions, ensuring users pay gas fees only once, in the source-chain token.

4. Incentives: AXL provides incentives to validators, developers, and users to maintain and grow the network, ensuring its longevity and ecosystem growth.

5. Cross-Chain Operations: AXL facilitates cross-chain transactions and interactions, enabling seamless communication and data exchange between different blockchain ecosystems.

These uses of AXL are crucial to the functioning and growth of the Axelar network, which aims to enhance interoperability and scalability across blockchain platforms.

To store Axelar (AXL) tokens, you can use several wallet options:

1. MyEtherWallet (MEW) and Enkrypt: This is a secure and user-friendly option that allows you to hold AXL tokens and interact with the Axelar network on both mobile and desktop devices.

2. Ledger Wallet: Ledger is a hardware wallet that uses offline, or cold storage, to generate private keys, making it a highly secure method. You can connect your Ledger device to the Keplr wallet extension to manage your AXL tokens.

3. Cosmostation Wallet: This is an all-in-one wallet that supports multiple networks, including Axelar. You can set up a Cosmostation wallet from scratch, and it allows you to send, receive, delegate, and stake tokens on various networks.

4. Keplr Wallet: Keplr is a popular wallet in the Cosmos ecosystem that supports AXL tokens. You can set up a Keplr wallet and access the Axelar network to send, receive, store, and stake AXL tokens.

Each of these options provides a secure way to manage your AXL tokens, and the specific instructions for setting them up are detailed in the provided sources.

To buy Axelar (AXL) tokens, you can follow these steps:

1. Choose a Centralized Exchange (CEX):

   • Uphold: Known for its user-friendly interface and innovative features. It offers both desktop and mobile apps, allowing for easy trading and one-step ordering.
   • Kraken: A trusted exchange with over 9 million users and a wide range of digital assets, including Axelar. It offers futures and margin trading options.
   • Coinbase: A popular exchange that allows you to buy Axelar with a bank account, debit card, or wire transfer. It provides a step-by-step guide for purchasing AXL.
   • KuCoin: Offers a variety of payment methods and supports over 700 digital assets. It provides a safe and trusted platform with high liquidity and an intuitive interface.

2. Create an Account:

   • Register on the chosen exchange's website or mobile app.
   • Verify your email address and identity.
   • Set up a strong password and enable two-factor authentication for added security.

3. Add a Payment Method:

• Connect a payment method such as a bank account, debit card, or credit card.
• For some exchanges, you can also use wire transfers or other cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.

4. Buy Axelar (AXL):

   • Search for Axelar in the exchange's asset list.
   • Select the desired amount to purchase and confirm the transaction.
   • Review the details and finalize the purchase.

5. Store Your Axelar (AXL):

   • You can store your AXL tokens in the exchange's wallet or transfer them to a personal crypto wallet for added security.

Alternatively, you can also buy Axelar through a decentralized exchange (DEX) by connecting your crypto wallet and following the DEX's specific procedures.