chain.link

# Chainlink

> Chainlink is the backbone of blockchain. It is the standard for onchain finance, verifiable data, and cross-chain interoperability. Chainlink is unifying liquidity across global markets and has enabled over $20 trillion in transaction value across the blockchain economy. Major financial market infrastructures and institutions, such as Swift, Fidelity International, and ANZ Bank, as well as top DeFi protocols including Aave, GMX, and Lido, use Chainlink to power next-generation applications for banking, asset management, and other major sectors.

Chainlink is a set of open standards for onchain data, cross-chain interoperability, and offchain computation. The platform is powered by decentralized oracle networks (DONs), which are composed of independent oracle node operators that come to consensus over any arbitrary input to deliver highly secure and reliable data, computation, and value to their intended destination. The Chainlink data standard, including Data Feeds and Data Streams, is used to supply DeFi with financial market data; tokenized assets with proof of reserve (PoR), net asset value (NAV), assets under management (AUM); traditional institutions with identity and compliance data; and decentralized applications (dApps) with virtually any type of data point they need to function. The Chainlink interoperability standard, powered by the Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP), enables data and value to move seamlessly across any public and private blockchain, as well as facilitates communication between blockchains and traditional systems, such as banks, governments, and enterprises. CCIP secures tens of billions of dollars in asset value and has enabled the transfer of billions of dollars in cross-chain value. The Chainlink compute standard, powered by the Chainlink Runtime Environment (CRE) enables developers to easily build an application that combines any data, any blockchain, any legacy systems, and computation into a unified application. With CRE, developers can easily adapt the application to support new connections without having to rewrite the app.

The Chainlink Network is composed of the highest quality Sybil-resistant oracle nodes, operated by leading DevOps and security teams, who have decades of experience running mission-critical infrastructure. Chainlink node operators include traditional Web2 telecommunication providers, leading data providers, and Web3 infrastructure providers such as Deutsche Telekom, Swisscom, Vodafone, and Infura.
Chainlink employs a defense-in-depth approach where multiple security solutions are used in combination to increase oracle network robustness and reliability. This includes the security design principles underpinning Chainlink's Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP)—such as a software engineering principle introduced in the 1980s called N-version programming (NVP) that has been used to increase redundancy and fault tolerance in safety-critical infrastructure in the aerospace industry—increased cryptoeconomic security through Staking, and much more.

## About
- [Official Homepage](https://chain.link/): Explore Chainlink's comprehensive offerings and ecosystem.
- [Introduction and Overview](https://blog.chain.link/what-is-chainlink/): A beginner-friendly explanation of Chainlink's core concepts and value proposition.
- [Real-World Examples](https://chain.link/block-stories): Discover how various projects and industries are leveraging Chainlink's technology.
- [Brand Materials](https://chain.link/brand-assets): Access the official visual identity of Chainlink for media and community use.
- [Frequently Asked Questions](https://chain.link/faqs): Find answers to common queries about Chainlink's technology and ecosystem.
- [Chainlink Team](https://chain.link/team): Learn about the individuals and leadership behind the Chainlink network.
- [Partners and Collaborators](https://chain.link/ecosystem): Explore the diverse range of projects and organizations partnering with Chainlink.
- [Data Providers Network](https://chain.link/ecosystem/data-providers): Discover the sources of reliable off-chain data feeding the Chainlink network.

## Core Products
- [Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol (CCIP)](https://chain.link/cross-chain): CCIP is the cross-chain interoperability standard that enables the movement of data and tokens across any blockchain.
- [Data Feeds](https://chain.link/data-feeds): Get high-quality, tamper-proof price data from decentralized oracle networks to power your DeFi protocols, NFTs, and more.
- [Data Streams](https://chain.link/data-streams): Power high-throughput DeFi applications with real-time, low-latency data delivered directly onchain.
- [Automation](https://chain.link/automation): Reliably automate key smart contract functions and DevOps tasks at predefined times and external events, without relying on centralized infrastructure.
- [Functions](https://chain.link/functions): Seamlessly connect your smart contracts to any Web2 or Web3 API and leverage off-chain compute in a secure and trust-minimized way.
- [Proof of Reserve](https://chain.link/proof-of-reserve): Enhance the transparency and trust of your tokenized assets by providing on-chain verification of their real-world reserves.
- [Verifiable Random Function (VRF)](https://chain.link/vrf): Access a secure and auditable source of on-chain randomness needed to build reliable smart contracts for NFTs, gaming, and more.

## Specialized Features
- [Chainlink Runtime Environment](https://chain.link/cre-early-access): Discover Chainlink's upcoming environment for reusable modular capabilities that developers can compose in any way into workflows.
- [Production Use Cases](https://chain.link/case-studies): Explore detailed examples of how Chainlink's products are being used in various industries.

## Use Cases
- [Use Cases Overview](https://chain.link/use-cases): Get a broad understanding of the diverse applications of Chainlink technology.
- [Asset Tokenization](https://chain.link/use-cases/asset-tokenization): Learn how Chainlink is powering the tokenized real-world asset landscape.
- [DeFi Solutions](https://chain.link/use-cases/defi): Explore how Chainlink enhances the security and functionality of Decentralized Finance protocols.
- [Traditional Finance Integration](https://chain.link/use-cases/financial-services): Discover how Chainlink bridges the gap between traditional financial institutions and blockchain technology.
- [Educational Tech Talks](https://chain.link/techtalks): Access recordings of informative presentations on various aspects of Chainlink and the broader blockchain ecosystem.

## Economics
- [Incentive Models Overview](https://chain.link/economics): Understand the economic principles and incentives that drive the Chainlink network.
- [Developer Support Program](https://chain.link/economics/build-program): Learn about the resources and incentives available for developers building on Chainlink.
- [LINK Staking Program](https://chain.link/economics/staking): Discover how Chainlink ecosystem participants can help secure the network.
- [Token Supply Transparency](https://chain.link/circulating-supply): Access information about the current and total supply of the LINK token.

## Developer Programs
- [Bootcamps](https://chain.link/bootcamp): Master Web3 development with instructor-led sessions, learning how to write smart contracts and build Web3 apps.
- [Hackathons](https://chain.link/hackathon): Participate in coding challenges, build innovative solutions using Chainlink, and connect with other Web3 developers.
- [SmartCon Conference](https://chain.link/smartcon): Join leaders across finance, Web3, and government to explore the convergence of traditional finance and the onchain world.

## Community
- [Community](https://chain.link/community): Join Chainlink's global community dedicated to advancing smart contracts through various initiatives and discussions.
- [Advocates Program](https://chain.link/advocates): Become a Chainlink Advocate and play a key role in growing the Chainlink ecosystem. Connect with industry leaders, get exclusive access to team members, and receive support to grow your local meetup.
- [Community Events](https://chain.link/community/events): Attend Chainlink events across the globe and join the Chainlink community.
- [Ecosystem Funding](https://chain.link/community/grants): The Chainlink Grant Program funds individuals and teams building a more functional, accessible, and impactful smart contract economy.

## Contact & Press
- [General Inquiries](https://chain.link/contact): Reach out to the Chainlink team for general questions and information.
- [Asset Tokenization Contact](https://chain.link/contact-asset-tokenization): Contact the dedicated team for questions related to tokenized real-world asset use cases powered by Chainlink.
- [Enterprise Partnerships](https://chain.link/contact-bcm): Connect with the team for strategic collaborations within banking and capital markets.
- [CCIP Integrations](https://chain.link/ccip-contact): Contact the team for questions and collaborations related to the Cross-Chain Interoperability Protocol.
- [Original Technical Paper](https://chain.link/whitepaper): Read the foundational document outlining the architecture and vision of Chainlink.
- [Media Resources](https://chain.link/press): Access official press releases, logos, and other media assets.

## Education & Learning

### Featured Hubs
- [Education Portal](https://chain.link/education): Learn about Chainlink and blockchain basics.
- [Asset Tokenization Education](https://chain.link/education/asset-tokenization): Introduction to tokenized assets.
- [Blockchain Oracles Education](https://chain.link/education/blockchain-oracles): Why oracles are critical to smart contracts.
- [Cross-Chain Solutions Education](https://chain.link/education/cross-chain): Interoperability across blockchain ecosystems.
- [DeFi Fundamentals Education](https://chain.link/education/defi): Explore decentralized finance.
- [Smart Contracts Education](https://chain.link/education/smart-contracts): Understand how smart contracts work.
- [Zero-Knowledge Proofs Education](https://chain.link/education/zero-knowledge-proof-zkp): Privacy-preserving computation.
- [Web3 Concepts Education](https://chain.link/education/web3): The decentralized web.
- [NFT Education](https://chain.link/education/nfts): Guide to non-fungible tokens.

### Topic-Specific Guides
- [Blockchain Interoperability Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/blockchain-interoperability): In-depth Guide on Cross-Chain Communication.
- [Cross-Chain Bridges Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/cross-chain-bridge): Understanding Mechanisms for Bridging Blockchains.
- [Liquid Staking Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/liquid-staking): Exploring the Benefits of Liquid Derivatives of Staked Assets.
- [The Oracle Problem Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/oracle-problem): Understanding the Challenge of Connecting Smart Contracts to Off-Chain Data.
- [Proof of Reserves Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/proof-of-reserves): Detailed Explanation of Verifying Asset Backing On-Chain.
- [Real-World Assets Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/real-world-assets-rwas-explained): Comprehensive Overview of Bringing Off-Chain Assets On-Chain.
- [Stablecoins Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/stablecoins): Understanding the Mechanics and Types of Price-Stable Cryptocurrencies.
- [Tokenization Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/tokenization): A Comprehensive Guide to Representing Assets as Tokens.
- [Tokenized Gold Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/tokenized-gold): Exploring the Benefits and Mechanisms of Digital Gold Assets.
- [Tokenized Real Estate Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/tokenized-real-estate): Understanding the Applications of Blockchain in Real Estate.
- [Bitcoin DeFi Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/bitcoin-defi-btcfi): Exploring Decentralized Finance Applications on the Bitcoin Network.
- [Cross-Chain NFTs Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/cross-chain-nft): Understanding the Transfer and Use of NFTs Across Different Blockchains.
- [Ordinals Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/ordinals-bitcoin-nfts): Exploring the New Form of NFTs on the Bitcoin Blockchain.
- [Zero-Knowledge Rollups Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/zero-knowledge-rollup): Understanding Layer-2 Scaling Solutions Using Zero-Knowledge Proofs.
- [Blockchain Basics Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/blockchain): A Foundational Guide to Distributed Ledger Technology.
- [AMMs Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/what-is-an-automated-market-maker-amm): Understanding the Mechanics of Decentralized Exchanges.
- [Flash Loans Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/flash-loans): Exploring Uncollateralized Lending in DeFi.
- [DEXs Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/what-is-decentralized-exchange-dex): Understanding Peer-to-Peer Cryptocurrency Trading Platforms.
- [Layer 2 Scaling Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/what-is-layer-2): Exploring Solutions for Improving Blockchain Transaction Throughput.
- [Cross-Chain Transfers Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/cross-chain-token-transfers): Understanding the Mechanisms for Moving Assets Between Blockchains.
- [Smart Contract Languages Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/smart-contract-programming-languages): An Overview of Languages Used to Develop Smart Contracts.
- [Cross-Chain Swaps Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/cross-chain-swap): Understanding the Exchange of Assets Between Different Blockchains.
- [Atomic Swaps Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/atomic-swaps): Exploring Trustless Peer-to-Peer Cryptocurrency Exchanges.
- [Blockchain Scalability Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/blockchain-scalability): Understanding the Challenges and Solutions for Network Capacity.
- [BRC-20 Tokens Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/brc-20-token): Exploring the New Token Standard on the Bitcoin Network.
- [Cross-Chain DeFi Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/cross-chain-defi): Understanding Decentralized Finance Applications Across Multiple Blockchains.
- [Cross-Chain LSDs Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/cross-chain-liquid-staking-derivatives): Exploring Liquid Staking Solutions Across Different Networks.
- [DeFi Ecosystem Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/defi-ecosystem): A Comprehensive Look at the Decentralized Finance Landscape.
- [Dynamic NFTs Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/dynamic-nft-use-cases): Exploring NFTs with Evolving Properties.
- [Homomorphic Encryption Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/homomorphic-encryption): Understanding Encryption That Allows Computation on Ciphertext.
- [Smart Contract Auditing Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/how-to-audit-smart-contract): A Guide to Ensuring Smart Contract Security.
- [Asset Tokenization How-To](https://chain.link/education-hub/how-to-tokenize-an-asset): A Step-by-Step Guide to Asset Tokenization.
- [Hybrid Smart Contracts Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/hybrid-smart-contracts): Understanding Smart Contracts Enhanced with Off-Chain Data and Computation.
- [MEV Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/maximal-extractable-value-mev): Exploring Strategies for Profit Extraction from Blockchain Transactions.
- [Multi-Chain Architecture Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/multi-chain): Understanding the Trend Towards Interconnected Blockchain Networks.
- [Music NFTs Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/music-nfts): Exploring the Applications of NFTs in the Music Industry.
- [NFT Games Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/nft-games): Understanding the Integration of NFTs in Gaming.
- [TWAP vs VWAP Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/twap-vs-vwap): Understanding Different Averaging Methods for Price Data.
- [Dynamic NFTs Explained](https://chain.link/education-hub/what-is-dynamic-nft): A Clear Explanation of Evolving Non-Fungible Tokens.
- [Crypto Staking Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/what-is-staking-crypto): Understanding How to Earn Rewards by Locking Up Cryptocurrency.
- [ZKP Projects Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/zero-knowledge-proof-projects): Exploring Real-World Applications of ZKP Technology.
- [ZKP Use Cases Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/zero-knowledge-proof-use-cases): Discovering Various Applications of Privacy-Preserving Computation.
- [zk-SNARKs vs zk-STARKs Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/zk-snarks-vs-zk-starks): Understanding the Differences Between Two Major Types of Zero-Knowledge Proofs.
- [zkEVMs Guide](https://chain.link/education-hub/zkevm): Exploring Ethereum Virtual Machines Utilizing Zero-Knowledge Proofs for Scalability.

## Developer Utilities
- [Official Docs](https://docs.chain.link/): Comprehensive technical documentation for integrating with Chainlink.
- [Testnet Faucets](https://chain.link/faucets): Obtain free testnet LINK tokens for testing your Chainlink integrations on various test networks.
- [Developer Portal](https://dev.chain.link/): A central hub for developers with tools, guides, and resources for building with Chainlink.

## Smart Contract Tutorials
- [Chainlink Tutorials](https://chain.link/tutorials): Step-by-step guides for various Chainlink integrations and smart contract development tasks.
- [Build a Crypto Wallet](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-build-a-crypto-wallet): Learn to Create Your Own Cryptocurrency Wallet.
- [Build a dApp](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-build-a-dapp): A Guide to Developing Decentralized Applications.
- [NFT Marketplace Tutorial](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-build-an-nft-marketplace-with-hardhat-and-solidity): Learn to Create a Platform for Trading Non-Fungible Tokens.
- [Create a Crypto Coin](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-create-a-crypto-coin): A Step-by-Step Guide to Launching Your Own Cryptocurrency.
- [Hello World Smart Contract](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-create-a-hello-world-smart-contract-with-solidity): Your First Smart Contract on the Ethereum Blockchain.
- [Create a PoW Blockchain](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-create-a-pow-blockchain-network): Learn the Fundamentals of Building a Proof-of-Work Blockchain.
- [Create ERC-20 on Polygon](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-create-an-erc-20-token-on-polygon): Guide to deploying your own ERC-20 token on the Polygon network.
- [Create an NFT](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-create-an-nft): Learn the basics of creating your own Non-Fungible Token.
- [Mint an NFT](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-mint-an-nft): Understand the process of issuing new NFTs.
- [Read Smart Contracts](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-read-smart-contract): Learn how to interact with and retrieve data from deployed smart contracts.
- [Verify on Etherscan](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-verify-a-smart-contract-on-etherscan): Ensure transparency by verifying your smart contract source code on Etherscan.
- [Verify with Hardhat](https://chain.link/tutorials/how-to-verify-smart-contract-on-etherscan-hardhat): Learn to verify your smart contracts using the Hardhat development environment.
- [Trigger Contract Execution](https://chain.link/tutorials/trigger-smart-contract-execution): Explore different methods for initiating smart contract functions.
- [Verify Stablecoin Collateral](https://chain.link/tutorials/verify-stablecoin-collateral-with-chainlink-proof-of-reserve): Learn how to use Chainlink PoR to verify the backing of stablecoins.

## Other resources
- [Blockchain Oracle Security](https://chain.link/resources/blockchain-oracle-security): Understand the security considerations and best practices for blockchain oracles.
- [Cross-Chain Asset Settlement](https://chain.link/resources/cross-chain-tokenized-asset-settlement): Explore the challenges and solutions for settling tokenized assets across different blockchains.