diff --git a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/03-why-use-cardano.mdx b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/03-why-use-cardano.mdx index 0166d284..02bafd0b 100644 --- a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/03-why-use-cardano.mdx +++ b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/03-why-use-cardano.mdx @@ -3,7 +3,7 @@ title: Why use Cardano? metaTitle: Why use Cardano? --- -[Cardano](https://cardano.org/) is an open source [proof-of-stake](https://docs.cardano.org/new-to-cardano/proof-of-stake) blockchain project that began in 2015 +[Cardano](https://cardano.org/) is an open source [proof-of-stake](/new-to-cardano/proof-of-stake) blockchain project that began in 2015 to address existing blockchain challenges in the design and development of cryptocurrencies. It aims to provide a more balanced and sustainable ecosystem that better accounts for the needs of its users as well as other systems seeking @@ -35,26 +35,23 @@ To address these needs, Cardano focuses on such core concepts as: Scalability also provides higher bandwidth capabilities to allow transactions to carry a significant amount of supportive data that can be easily managed within the network. For these needs, Cardano is implementing various - techniques (like data compression for instance) and is working to introduce + techniques (like data compression for instance) and introduces [Hydra](https://iohk.io/en/research/library/papers/hydrafast-isomorphic-state-channels/), - which will enable multiple side chains functionality. + which will enable multiple sidechain functionality. - **Interoperability** — ensures the most multi-functional environment for financial, business, or commercial operations by enabling users to interact not only with one type of currency, but with multiple currencies across various blockchains. Moreover, interoperability with centralized banking entities is as important to grant legitimacy and convenience of use. Cardano - is being developed to support cross-chain transfers, multiple token types, and - commonly used smart contracts languages. + aims to support cross-chain transfers, multiple token types, and + commonly used smart contract languages. Read more about the concept of [partner chains](https://iohk.io/en/blog/posts/2023/11/03/partner-chains-are-coming-to-cardano/). - **Sustainability** — designing a proof-of-stake blockchain means it is vital to ensure that the system is self-sustainable. To drive growth and maturity in a truly decentralized manner, Cardano is built to allow the community to maintain its continuous development by participating, proposing, and - implementing system improvements. To ensure sustainability, the treasury - system is controlled by the community and is refilled constantly from - potential sources such as newly-minted coins being held back as funding, a - percentage of stake pool rewards, and transaction fees. + implementing system improvements. This is now being implemented through [CIP-1694](https://cips.cardano.org/cip/CIP-1694) on-chain governance mechanisms. -### Cardano advantages +## Cardano advantages - **Academic research** — formal methods, such as mathematical specifications, property-based tests, and proofs, are the best way to deliver high assurance @@ -66,8 +63,8 @@ To address these needs, Cardano focuses on such core concepts as: - **System design** — Cardano is written in Haskell, a secure functional programming language that encourages building a system using pure functions, which leads to a design where components are conveniently testable in - isolation. Furthermore, advanced features of Haskell enable us to employ a - whole range of powerful methods for ensuring correctness of the code, such as + isolation. Advanced features of Haskell enable employing a + whole range of powerful methods for ensuring code correctness, such as basing the implementation on formal and executable specifications, extensive property-based testing, and running tests in simulation. - **Security** — @@ -88,10 +85,10 @@ To address these needs, Cardano focuses on such core concepts as: rules and changes would be implemented, and the chain would restart – with its previous history being erased. Cardano handles hard forks differently. Instead of implementing radical changes, the Cardano - [hard-fork combinator technology](https://iohk.io/en/blog/posts/2020/05/07/combinator-makes-easy-work-of-shelley-hard-fork/) + [hard fork combinator technology](https://iohk.io/en/blog/posts/2020/05/07/combinator-makes-easy-work-of-shelley-hard-fork/) ensures a smooth transition to a new protocol while saving the history of the previous blocks and not causing any disruptions for end users. -- **Decentralization** — Cardano is maintained by almost 3,000 distributed stake +- **Decentralization** — Cardano is maintained by over 3,000 distributed stake pools that are operated by the community. All blocks and transactions are validated by network participants without any reliance on a centralized authority. - **Functional environment for business use cases** — Cardano is establishing a @@ -99,7 +96,7 @@ To address these needs, Cardano focuses on such core concepts as: can run using functional and domain-specific smart contracts, providing multi-asset tokens for any needs. -### Cardano development themes +## Cardano development phases [Cardano’s development journey](https://roadmap.cardano.org/en/) has been split into five main themes focusing on such core functionalities as: @@ -123,7 +120,7 @@ ada on a proof-of-stake blockchain network. Initially, the Cardano ledger was established as a federated network, where block production and transaction validation were maintained by Input Output Global (the company that develops Cardano technology) and [Emurgo](https://emurgo.io/) (the company that drives Cardano commercial -adoption) stake pools. Byron saw the delivery of [Daedalus](https://docs.cardano.org/cardano-components/daedalus-wallet) and Yoroi wallets, and +adoption) stake pools. Byron saw the delivery of [Daedalus](https://daedaluswallet.io/) and Yoroi wallets, and also provided users with a Block Explorer ‒ a tool specifically designed for browsing the blockchain. @@ -133,7 +130,7 @@ The Shelley development theme introduced a decentralized ledger creating a completely new economic system, which drives the network’s growth and gradual optimization. Shelley evolved from Byron’s federated network maintenance, with more and more blocks being produced by the distributed stake pool operator -community. This theme focuses on a number of critical steps that ensure enhanced +community. This theme focused on a number of critical steps that ensure enhanced user experience in terms of stake pool operation, delegation preferences, and incentives. As a proof-of-stake network, Cardano Shelley introduced the Incentivized Testnet (ITN) which proved that the blockchain can be sustainable @@ -141,7 +138,7 @@ in the long term by relying exclusively on community-managed pools. **Goguen** -Goguen development focuses on the establishment of a global, financial and +Goguen development focused on the establishment of a global, financial and multi-functional system for decentralized application (DApp) building, smart contract support, and custom token issuance. Goguen is a key building block to establish a versatile platform to build solutions around such application @@ -150,7 +147,7 @@ voting, property registration, P2P payments, and many others. **Basho** -Basho will focus on Cardano’s optimization in terms of improving the scalability +Basho focuses on Cardano’s optimization in terms of improving the scalability and interoperability of the network. Whereas other development stages focus on decentralization and new functionality, Basho is about improving the underlying performance of the Cardano network to better support growth and adoption for @@ -159,13 +156,13 @@ applications with high transaction volume. **Voltaire** Decentralized governance and decision making lie at the heart of Voltaire -granting the Cardano community an ability to vote on network development +granting the Cardano community the ability to vote on network development updates, technical improvements, and project funding. For the Cardano network to -become truly decentralized, it requires not only the distributed infrastructure +become more decentralized, it requires not only the distributed infrastructure introduced during Shelley but also the capacity to be maintained and improved over time in a decentralized way. -#### Related Topics: +### Related topics: - [Understanding Cardano](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=Ja9D0kpksxw) (Cardano whiteboard by Charles Hoskinson) - [Cardano design rationale](/explore-cardano/cardano-design-rationale) - [Detailed Cardano roadmap](https://roadmap.cardano.org/en/) diff --git a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/04-proof-of-stake.mdx b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/04-proof-of-stake.mdx index f7c4065d..b806d28c 100644 --- a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/04-proof-of-stake.mdx +++ b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/04-proof-of-stake.mdx @@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ metaTitle: Proof of stake --- Proof of stake (PoS) is a type of -[consensus mechanism](https://docs.cardano.org/learn/consensus-explained) or +[consensus mechanism](/learn/consensus-explained) or protocol that uses the amount of stake (or value) held in the system to determine consensus. In essence, a consensus protocol is what controls the laws and parameters governing the behavior of blockchains. Think of consensus as a @@ -14,7 +14,7 @@ instead to allow distributed network participants to agree on the _history_ of the network captured on the blockchain – to reach consensus on what has happened, and continue from a single source of truth. -[Cardano](https://cardano.org/) is built on the ground-breaking PoS consensus +Cardano is built on the ground-breaking PoS consensus protocol [Ouroboros](https://iohk.io/en/blog/posts/2022/06/03/from-classic-to-chronos-the-implementations-of-ouroboros-explained/), and the first blockchain consensus protocol to be developed through @@ -26,7 +26,7 @@ experience or availability to keep a node running. These stake pools focus on maintenance and hold the combined stake of various stakeholders in a single entity. -### How does proof of stake compare to proof of work protocols? +## How does proof of stake compare to proof of work protocols? In contrast, proof of work (PoW) is a synchronous protocol that encourages miners to compete to be the first who can solve any problems within the block. A @@ -35,7 +35,7 @@ approach comes at a cost, with increased electricity usage and longer time spans to solve problems within the chain. These factors can slow the network down significantly and means it is costly to maintain. -### Features of proof of stake +## Features of proof of stake One of the key features of PoS is that as a user's value increases, the opportunity to maintain the ledger also increases. This means a higher chance to @@ -48,15 +48,15 @@ their wealth as they go. This approach encourages steady and stable growth of the blockchain and reduces the instances of stalled transactions that can prevent chain growth. -### Primary advantages of proof of stake +## Primary advantages of proof of stake Some of the primary advantages of PoS over PoW include: -- rigorous security protocols are incorporated into a PoS protocol. +- rigorous security protocols are incorporated into a PoS protocol - reduced centralization - the risk of centralization is reduced by issuing penalties for selfish practices within the network - energy efficiency - energy consumption is extremely efficient as a smaller amount of electricity, as well as hardware resources, are needed to produce - and run the blockchain. + and run the blockchain - cost efficiencies - PoS currencies are far more cost-effective than those operating on PoW protocols. diff --git a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/06-cardano-tracking-tools.mdx b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/06-cardano-tracking-tools.mdx index 55201894..7551cffa 100644 --- a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/06-cardano-tracking-tools.mdx +++ b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/06-cardano-tracking-tools.mdx @@ -6,7 +6,7 @@ metaTitle: Cardano tracking tools Since Cardano is a public blockchain ledger, it is possible to easily track all recent transactions, block details, and epoch data using different tools. -### Exploring transactions and blocks +## Exploring transactions and blocks **Cardano Explorer** @@ -14,28 +14,20 @@ recent transactions, block details, and epoch data using different tools. fetches data from the main database and reflects it in a straightforward and convenient web interface. -The Explorer shows the latest epoch details. You can click the latest epoch and +The explorer shows the latest epoch details. You can click the latest epoch and see: - a number of blocks produced during this epoch - time the epoch started - time of last produced block - number of processed transactions -- total output in ada - -![latest_epoch_summary](latest_epoch_summary.png) - -Figure 1. Latest epoch summary +- total output in ada. By choosing a specific block, you can explore it in more detail to see its ID, size, epoch and block details, number of included transactions and -confirmations: - -![block_summary](block_summary.png) +confirmations. -Figure 2. Block summary - -You can also search for specific epochs, transactions or blocks by pasting their +You can also search for specific epochs, transactions, or blocks by pasting their IDs in the search field. Here are some other explorers to consider: @@ -44,7 +36,7 @@ Here are some other explorers to consider: - [Cardanoscan](https://cardanoscan.io/transactions) - [Cexplorer](https://cexplorer.io/) -### Exploring assets +## Exploring assets Cardano supports multi-asset creation and management. To see a list of created assets and tokens, you can use these tools: @@ -55,7 +47,7 @@ assets and tokens, you can use these tools: - [Pool.pm (tokens)](https://pool.pm/tokens) - [Cexplorer (tokens)](https://cexplorer.io/token) -### Exploring stake pools +## Exploring stake pools To find a list of all registered stake pools, their tickers, pool names, and IDs, you can use these tools: @@ -63,5 +55,11 @@ IDs, you can use these tools: - [Cardano PoolTool](https://pooltool.io/) - [Cardanoscan (pools)](https://cardanoscan.io/pools) - [Pool.pm (pools)](https://pool.pm/search) - -> Note: IOHK has developed a stake pool metadata aggregation server [(SMASH)](https://docs.cardano.org/operating-a-stake-pool/smash/) to provide the community with a list of verified stake pools with valid metadata. Smash is integrated with the Daedalus wallet, and users can see a list of valid stake pools in the delegation center tab. + +:::tip + +If you'd like to include additional references to ecosystem tracking tools, please submit a pull request. + +::: + + diff --git a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/07-how-to-purchase-ada.mdx b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/07-how-to-purchase-ada.mdx index caa6ca81..dff27ca4 100644 --- a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/07-how-to-purchase-ada.mdx +++ b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/07-how-to-purchase-ada.mdx @@ -1,20 +1,24 @@ --- -title: How to purchase ada? -metaTitle: How to purchase ada? +title: How to acquire some ada? +metaTitle: How to acquire some ada? --- -> **Note**: we are not making any investment advice. Please consider conducting -> your own research and due diligence, or consult your financial advisor before -> making any investment decisions. +:::warning -Like any other cryptocurrency, ada can be purchased using one of the available +We are not making any investment advice. Please consider conducting +your own research and due diligence, or consult your financial advisor before +making any investment decisions. + +::: + +Like any other cryptocurrency, ada can be acquired using one of the available exchanges. We do not recommend any particular exchange, as there are many great options. However, you can find [a list of exchanges listing ada on Cardano markets.](https://coinmarketcap.com/currencies/cardano/markets/) -### Step 1 Download a wallet +## Step 1. Download a wallet 1. First, you need to download and install a [cryptocurrency wallet](/new-to-cardano/types-of-wallets/#wheretostoreada) that supports ada. 2. Create a new wallet and name it. @@ -22,14 +26,14 @@ However, you can find Note that your passwords are the only way you can access your wallet; keep them in a safe place and don’t lose them. You will have a spending password (which is the one used for transacting), and a 12- or 24-word passphrase - depending on the wallet you chose. + depending on the wallet you choose. 4. Recreate your passphrase and accept the terms and conditions. The wallet should be now all set. 5. Click ‘Receive’ and copy a wallet address or download a PDF file with the QR code. You will need to use this address to receive your cryptocurrency later. -### Step 2 Choose an exchange +## Step 2. Choose an exchange 1. Explore cryptocurrency exchanges and choose the one that supports ada. 2. Create an account. To create an account, exchanges typically require such @@ -39,18 +43,18 @@ However, you can find - email address and phone number - payment method (to fund your account) - a document that identifies your personality (passport, driver’s license, - ID, etc) + ID, etc). We recommend setting up 2FA verification for enhanced security and funds safety. It usually takes from several minutes to several days for an account to be activated. This depends on the chosen exchange. -### Step 3 Purchase ada +## Step 3. Acquire ada 1. Sign in to your exchange account. 2. Select a Buy/Sell option, which is usually at the top menu. -3. Click Buy, enter ADA (Cardano) as the cryptocurrency you wish to purchase. -4. Indicate the amount of ada you would like to purchase and select a payment method (whether it is a wire transfer, credit or debit card). Each exchange will offer you available options, please read them carefully and follow the outlined steps. +3. Click Buy, enter ADA (Cardano) as the cryptocurrency you wish to acquire. +4. Indicate the amount of ada you would like to get and select a payment method (whether it is a wire transfer, credit or debit card). Each exchange will offer you available options, please read them carefully and follow the outlined steps. 5. Confirm your purchase. You will typically have to confirm it via email and enter the 2FA code (in case you have set it up). You will then receive your ada on the exchange account. 6. Withdraw ada to your personal wallet. If this is the first time you are making a withdrawal, try smaller amounts to verify that everything works. Note that it is highly **not recommended** to store ada (or any other cryptocurrency) on the exchange account. To transfer your ada, choose the ‘Withdraw’ option, paste your wallet address (the one you copied earlier from your wallet) and submit your transfer. 7. Check you have received your funds. Go to your wallet and check the balance. You can also track recent transactions using different [explorer tools](/new-to-cardano/cardano-tracking-tools). diff --git a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/08-types-of-wallets.mdx b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/08-types-of-wallets.mdx index cb444cb6..d70fa35a 100644 --- a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/08-types-of-wallets.mdx +++ b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/08-types-of-wallets.mdx @@ -3,47 +3,46 @@ title: Types of wallets metaTitle: Types of wallets --- -A cryptocurrency wallet is a safe and secure place where users can keep their -digital currencies. +A blockchain wallet is a safe and secure place where users can keep their +digital assets. -> _Remember, only a wallet that you have private keys to (a password that -> provides access to your cryptocurrency) is considered to be safe to store your -> personal funds. It is highly **not recommended** to store cryptocurrency on -> exchanges, as this increases the risk of funds loss._ -> -> _Not your keys, not your coins ‒ they say._ +:::warning -Cryptocurrency wallets come in different forms, from desktop and mobile +Please remember that it's only safe to store your digital assets in a wallet where you control the private keys (the password granting access to your assets). Storing digital assets on exchanges is highly discouraged. + +::: + +Blockchain wallets come in different forms, from desktop and mobile applications to hardware (USB-like) devices and paper wallets. All wallets are -designed to enable the storage of cryptocurrency and to allow the sending and -receiving of funds. Technically, cryptocurrency is not stored in the wallet ‒ -its records live on the blockchain, and can be accessed using unique private +designed to enable the storage of digital assets and to allow the sending and +receiving of those. Technically, assets are not stored in the wallet ‒ +their records live on the blockchain and can be accessed using unique private keys, which grant the right to make transactions. Losing your private keys means -losing access to your digital funds. That is why it is crucial to keep your keys +losing access to your digital assets. That is why it is crucial to keep your keys safe and offline. The difference between the wallet types lies in their security and supported functionality. Paper wallets are the most secure, for example, but not as -convenient in use; some wallets support a limited number of currencies, some +convenient in use; some wallets support a limited number of assets, some lack certain features (like delegation, for instance). Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of different wallet types: - **Paper wallets** — these are paper documents that contain public and private - keys details. Such documents can be stored in a safe place and are highly + key details. Such documents can be stored in a safe place and are highly secure as they can’t be compromised via online attacks. Paper wallets are best - to use for long-term savings. On the other hand, the funds linked to paper - wallets are not possible to operate online (for purchases, for example), as + to use for long-term savings. On the other hand, the assets linked to paper + wallets are not possible to operate online, as they will have to be moved to other wallets first. -- **Hardware wallets** — these are devices that store cryptocurrencies offline - and can be connected to a computer to access the funds. Hardware wallets are +- **Hardware wallets** — these are devices that store digital assets offline + and can be connected to a computer to access them. Hardware wallets are secure and their benefit lies in the balance of offline security and convenience as they can be carried around and used when needed. The disadvantage of the hardware wallet is the risk of device loss or damage. - **Online wallets** — these wallets can be commonly set up using a browser. - They work through the internet and store cryptocurrency in a certain + They work through the internet and store assets in a certain application or software. This is convenient as users can send, receive, and - use crypto as in any other bank account or payment system. However, online + use their digital assets as in any other bank account or payment system. However, online wallets are more open to security issues and can be compromised or attacked. _Search online for the most secure and suitable wallet; always keep your keys offline and use 2FA verification where possible (giving preference to security @@ -51,29 +50,29 @@ Let's take a closer look at the pros and cons of different wallet types: - **Desktop wallets** — these wallets can be downloaded on a personal computer. They are secure and convenient in use. Before choosing the best-matching solution, it is important to ensure that your computer meets software - requirements and that the wallet supports the cryptocurrency you would like to + requirements and that the wallet supports the asset you would like to work with. Desktop wallets are easy to use, but are not as flexible or portable. - **Mobile wallets** — these are wallet applications that can be installed - directly on a smartphone. Such wallets are simple to install and use and is a - good additional option for cryptocurrency storage. + directly on a smartphone. Such wallets are simple to install and use and are a + good additional option for digital asset storage. -### Where to store ada? +## Where to store ada? -There are different wallets that support ada. Take a look at some possible options below to choose the one that matches your needs best. +Different wallets support ada. Take a look at some possible options below to choose the one that matches your needs best. **Daedalus** Daedalus is a full node, desktop wallet. Daedalus downloads a full copy of the Cardano blockchain and independently validates every transaction in its history. This provides maximum security and completely trustless operation, without -centrally-hosted third party servers. It supports all major desktop operating +centrally-hosted third-party servers. It supports all major desktop operating systems and provides the following features: - easy installation with one-click setup of bundled Cardano node - locally stored wallets and encrypted private keys, not shared with third-party servers -- trustless operation with locally running full Cardano node which independently +- trustless operation with a locally running full Cardano node which independently validates full transaction history of the blockchain - supports Cardano network by participating in the Ouroboros protocol - wallet backup and restoration using mnemonics @@ -87,7 +86,7 @@ To install Daedalus, follow these steps: 1. First, read [system requirements](https://iohk.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360010496553). Please note that Daedalus is a resource-intensive application. If you want - to manage ada quickly and easily you can try Yoroi or AdaLite wallets. + to manage ada quickly and easily you can try Lace, Nami, Yoroi, or other wallets. 2. Visit the official [Daedalus website.](https://daedaluswallet.io/) 3. Follow [these installation instructions.](https://iohk.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/360011602173-Quick-start-guide#:~:text=Go%20to%20https%3A%2F%2Fdaedaluswallet,Daedalus%20wallet%20on%20your%20Machine.) diff --git a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/09-how-to-delegate.mdx b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/09-how-to-delegate.mdx index 56928002..a31712cf 100644 --- a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/09-how-to-delegate.mdx +++ b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/09-how-to-delegate.mdx @@ -1,23 +1,26 @@ --- -title: How to delegate and earn rewards? -metaTitle: How to delegate and earn rewards? +title: How to delegate? +metaTitle: How to delegate? --- Ada that is held on Cardano represents its holder’s stake in the protocol. The size of the stake is proportional to the amount of ada held. Users who hold a -stake in Cardano can earn passive rewards for validating blocks. +stake in Cardano can get passive rewards for validating blocks. Since not everyone has the time, knowledge, or resources to run a stake pool, ada holders can delegate their stake to a preferred pool and let an operator maintain their stake on their behalf. This allows everyone to participate in the -consensus and earn rewards without having to continuously run the node online. -The higher is the stake in a pool, the more rewards will be assigned to its +consensus and get rewards without having to continuously run the node online. +The higher the stake in a pool, the more rewards will be assigned to its owners. -> **Note** that you can spend your ada at any time, regardless of how you -> delegated it. +:::note -Ada holders can delegate their stake using Daedalus or Yoroi wallets. Here are +Note that you can spend your ada at any time, regardless of how you delegated it. + +::: + +Ada holders can delegate their stake using Daedalus, Yoroi, or other ecosystem wallets. Here are some useful articles to review: - [How to choose a stake pool](https://iohk.zendesk.com/hc/en-us/articles/900002174303-How-to-choose-a-stake-pool) @@ -27,3 +30,9 @@ some useful articles to review: - [Staking and delegating for beginners](https://forum.cardano.org/t/staking-and-delegating-for-beginners-a-step-by-step-guide/36681) (Daedalus) - [How to delegate from the Yoroi wallet](https://forum.cardano.org/t/cardano-shelley-how-to-delegate-from-the-yoroi-wallet/38230) + +:::tip + +If you'd like to include additional references to delegation tutorials, please submit a pull request. + +::: diff --git a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/10-what-is-a-smart-contract.mdx b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/10-what-is-a-smart-contract.mdx index 0f93ee61..03f8dd70 100644 --- a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/10-what-is-a-smart-contract.mdx +++ b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/10-what-is-a-smart-contract.mdx @@ -11,15 +11,15 @@ Once deployed, smart contracts become immutable, which means they cannot be chan Cardano introduced smart contract support in 2021. As a multi-functional environment, Cardano now supports the development and deployment of smart -contracts using such programming languages as: +contracts using different programming languages. Here are some examples: -- [Plutus](https://docs.cardano.org/smart-contracts/plutus/learn-about-plutus/) — a purpose-built smart contract development and execution +- [Plutus](/smart-contracts/plutus/learn-about-plutus/) — a purpose-built smart contract development and execution platform. Plutus contracts consist of parts that run on the blockchain (on-chain code) and parts that run on a user’s machine (off-chain or client code). Plutus draws from modern language research to provide a safe, full-stack programming environment based on Haskell, the leading functional programming language. -- [Marlowe](https://docs.cardano.org/smart-contracts/marlowe/learn-about-marlowe/) — a domain-specific language (DSL) for writing and executing +- [Marlowe](/smart-contracts/marlowe/) — a domain-specific language (DSL) for writing and executing financial contracts that allows building contracts visually as well as in more traditional code. Financial institutions can use it to develop and deploy custom instruments for their customers and clients, for example. The Marlowe @@ -29,9 +29,14 @@ contracts using such programming languages as: - [OpShin](https://github.com/OpShin) - a programming language based on Python for generic smart contracts for Cardano. - [plu-ts](https://github.com/HarmonicLabs/plu-ts) - TypeScript-embedded smart contract programming language and a transaction creation library. -### Further reading and related topics +:::info + +Discover more ecosystem [builder tools here.](https://developers.cardano.org/tools) + +::: + +## Further reading and related topics - [Developer Portal - smart contracts overview](https://developers.cardano.org/docs/smart-contracts/) - [A list of community-built developer tools on Cardano](https://www.essentialcardano.io/article/a-list-of-community-built-developer-tools-on-cardano) -- [Plutus tooling](https://docs.cardano.org/smart-contracts/plutus/plutus-resources/#plutustooling) diff --git a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/index.mdx b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/index.mdx index 049a08b1..52e0fb80 100644 --- a/docs/02-new-to-cardano/index.mdx +++ b/docs/02-new-to-cardano/index.mdx @@ -8,7 +8,7 @@ The understanding of basic concepts plays an integral role in getting acquainted with blockchain and [Cardano](https://cardano.org/) in particular. In this section, we start our journey with basic concepts such as the notion of blockchain, understanding -[consensus](https://docs.cardano.org/learn/consensus-explained), and what is a +consensus, and what is a cryptocurrency. You will also find out how Cardano differs from other existing solutions, learn how to track blockchain activities, and understand why smart contracts matter. If you are new to Cardano, you will also find out information diff --git a/docs/introduction.mdx b/docs/introduction.mdx index c688c209..8e4dc24e 100644 --- a/docs/introduction.mdx +++ b/docs/introduction.mdx @@ -5,21 +5,15 @@ metaDescription: 'Introduction' sidebar_position: 1 --- -Welcome to the central hub for Cardano documentation. Here you will find content -that describes and supports the features on Cardano mainnet and -Cardano testnet environments. +Welcome to the central hub for Cardano documentation. Here, you'll find content that describes and supports the features on both the Cardano mainnet and testnet environments. -This includes explainers, information on all the core components of Cardano, -details of how Cardano was designed and its architecture, how the Cardano -network works, explanations of the fee structure and monetary policy, release -notes, a compatibility matrix, and more. There is also content to support native tokens and references to -smart contracts material. +This includes basic explainers for newcomers to Cardano, explanations of the core features, details about Cardano's design and evolution, insights into how the Cardano network operates, and platform architecture. You can also access developer resources that explain the core concepts and provide links to developer documentation for more technical tutorials. If you are interested in building tools on Cardano, integrating with Cardano, and connecting with the wider developer community, please visit the [Cardano Developer Portal](https://developers.cardano.org/home/). -**Cardano explained** +## Cardano explained Cardano is a decentralized third-generation proof-of-stake blockchain platform and home to the ada cryptocurrency. It is the first blockchain platform to @@ -38,19 +32,13 @@ Cardano has been designed with security as one of its founding principles. It is written in Haskell, a functional programming language. In a functional language like Haskell, building your system using pure functions is encouraged, which leads to a design where components are conveniently testable in isolation. -Furthermore, advanced features of Haskell enable us to employ a whole range of -powerful methods for ensuring correctness of the code, such as basing the +Furthermore, advanced features of Haskell enable employing a whole range of +powerful methods for ensuring the correctness of the code, such as basing the implementation on formal and executable specifications, extensive property-based testing, and running tests in simulation. -Cardano is developing a smart contract platform which seeks to deliver more +Cardano's smart contract platform seeks to deliver more advanced features than any protocol previously developed and will serve as a -stable and secure platform for the development of enterprise-level dApps. In the -near future, Cardano will use a democratic governance system that allows the -project to evolve over time, and fund itself in a sustainable way through a -visionary treasury system. - -You can read more about Cardano on the -[official Cardano website](https://cardano.org/) and watch a summary of the -mission of Cardano in this -[explainer video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_Nv0-PVrnM/). +stable and secure platform for the development of enterprise-level DApps. Cardano's democratic governance system, implemented based on [CIP-1694](https://cips.cardano.org/cip/CIP-1694) on-chain governance mechanisms, will enable the project to evolve over time and sustainably fund itself through a visionary treasury system. + +You can read more about Cardano on the [official Cardano website](https://cardano.org/) and watch a summary of Cardano's mission in this [explainer video](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=l_Nv0-PVrnM/).