What is Cardano?

Cardano is a third-generation blockchain platform built on peer-reviewed research and evidence-based development. Founded by Charles Hoskinson, one of the co-founders of Ethereum, Cardano aims to provide a more balanced and sustainable ecosystem for cryptocurrencies.

Key Features

Proof of Stake

Unlike Bitcoin's energy-intensive proof-of-work system, Cardano uses a proof-of-stake consensus mechanism called Ouroboros. This makes the network significantly more energy-efficient while maintaining security and decentralization.

Scientific Foundation

Cardano is unique in that its development is guided by peer-reviewed academic research. Every upgrade and feature is rigorously analyzed before implementation, ensuring the platform's long-term reliability and security.

Smart Contracts

The Alonzo upgrade brought smart contract functionality to Cardano, enabling developers to build decentralized applications (dApps) on the platform. Cardano uses Plutus, a purpose-built smart contract language based on Haskell.

Native Tokens

Cardano supports native tokens without requiring smart contracts. This makes token creation simpler, cheaper, and more secure compared to platforms that rely on smart contracts for token management.

The Roadmap

Cardano's development is organized into five overlapping eras, each focusing on a specific aspect of the platform:

  • Byron — Foundation: Basic functionality and ADA transfers
  • Shelley — Decentralization: Stake pools and delegation
  • Goguen — Smart Contracts: Plutus and native tokens
  • Basho — Scaling: Performance and interoperability
  • Voltaire — Governance: On-chain voting and treasury

Why Cardano?

Cardano offers several advantages over other blockchain platforms:

  • Environmentally sustainable proof-of-stake consensus
  • Rigorous academic approach to development
  • Non-custodial staking (your ADA never leaves your wallet)
  • Active development and growing ecosystem
  • Strong focus on real-world adoption in developing nations

Learn More

Ready to participate in the Cardano network? Learn about staking your ADA to earn rewards while helping secure the network.

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