Tezos is an open-source blockchain platform designed to evolve by upgrading itself, facilitating the development of smart contracts and decentralized applications (DApps) with an emphasis on security, governance, and sustainability.
Tezos is a decentralized, open-source blockchain platform known for its unique self-amending capabilities, which allow the network to upgrade without requiring hard forks. Launched in 2018, Tezos was designed to address the challenges of governance, scalability, and sustainability that have impacted earlier blockchains. Through its innovative on-chain governance system, Tezos empowers token holders to participate in protocol decisions, enabling the blockchain to adapt and evolve over time.
Tezos was co-founded by Arthur and Kathleen Breitman with a focus on creating a blockchain that could evolve without divisive hard forks. The Tezos platform achieves this by incorporating a formal on-chain governance mechanism where network participants, also known as "bakers," can propose and vote on protocol upgrades. If an upgrade proposal is approved, the network automatically implements it, allowing for continuous development and avoiding the risk of contentious forks that could split the community.
Tezos operates on a Liquid Proof-of-Stake (LPoS) consensus mechanism, which is designed to be more energy-efficient than traditional Proof-of-Work systems. With LPoS, token holders can delegate their staking rights to bakers (validators) without transferring ownership of their tokens, promoting a democratic approach to network security and decision-making. This consensus model supports a decentralized and secure network while minimizing energy consumption, aligning with Tezos’s commitment to sustainability.
Tezos has a vibrant and active community of developers, validators, and users who are committed to advancing the platform. The Tezos Foundation plays a significant role in supporting ecosystem growth by providing grants, funding for educational resources, and organizing community events. The platform has attracted a wide range of decentralized finance (DeFi) projects, NFT marketplaces, and enterprise applications, further enriching the Tezos ecosystem.
In addition to supporting DeFi and NFT projects, Tezos has gained traction in sectors like gaming and supply chain management due to its focus on security, scalability, and upgradability. Major brands and institutions, including Red Bull Racing and Société Générale, have explored or partnered with Tezos for blockchain-based solutions, underscoring the platform’s credibility and adaptability. With its self-amending design, energy efficiency, and focus on formal verification, Tezos is positioned as a forward-looking blockchain that emphasizes long-term sustainability and security.