Cardano, a third-generation decentralized blockchain platform, employs a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism and supports smart contract functionality, enabling decentralized applications (dApps). The brainchild of Charles Hoskinson, Cardano stands as a leading blockchain network developed through meticulous peer-reviewed research over several years.
ADA, the native token of the Cardano blockchain, ranks among the top cryptocurrencies by market cap. Its potential for significant real-world applications makes it popular among digital asset investors.
The Cardano network's long-term vision is to facilitate real-world applications of blockchain technology, enhancing security, scalability, and sustainability to foster a decentralized future. Cardano realizes this vision through rigorous testing and research before implementing additional features to the blockchain.
Three key partners contribute to Cardano's development:
IOHK (Input Output Hong Kong)
Co-founded by Charles Hoskinson and Jeremy Wood, IOHK is a technology company responsible for the technical development of the Cardano blockchain, including its design, construction, and maintenance.
The Cardano Foundation
An independent entity, the foundation oversees the adoption of Cardano's technology through partnerships. It drives engagement within the Cardano community and coordinates with industries to raise awareness about the potential of this decentralized technology.
EMURGO
As one of the founding members of Cardano, EMURGO develops, supports, and incubates applications for the blockchain ecosystem. It explores commercial use cases for Cardano and introduces businesses to the potential of its blockchain.
Cardano's unique proof-of-stake consensus mechanism, Ouroboros, sets it apart from energy-intensive proof-of-work systems. It aims to be the most environmentally sustainable blockchain platform. The Cardano blockchain is divided into the Cardano Settlement Layer (CSL) and the Cardano Computing Layer (CCL). This division aids in processing a high volume of transactions.
