About
Cardano is a third-generation, decentralized Proof of Stake (PoS) blockchain platform designed to be a more efficient alternative to Proof of Work (PoW) networks like Bitcoin. It was founded by Charles Hoskinson, one of the co-founders of Ethereum, and is developed by IOHK (Input Output Hong Kong) in collaboration with the Cardano Foundation and EMURGO. Cardano distinguishes itself through a research-first approach, where every protocol upgrade and feature is subjected to rigorous peer-review by academic experts before implementation.
The platform is built on a unique dual-layer architecture: the Cardano Settlement Layer (CSL), which handles the native token ADA and transactions, and the Cardano Computation Layer (CCL), which is responsible for smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps). This separation allows for greater flexibility and easier network maintenance. Cardano’s native asset, ADA, is named after the 19th-century mathematician Ada Lovelace, often regarded as the first computer programmer. Beyond being a digital currency, ADA allows holders to participate in the network’s governance and earn rewards by staking their tokens to secure the network. Cardano aims to provide a secure and scalable infrastructure for a wide range of use cases, from identity management in developing nations to sophisticated decentralized finance (DeFi) ecosystems.
