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Mina Overview

What is Mina?​

Mina is an L1 blockchain based on zero knowledge proofs (ZKP) with smart contracts written in TypeScript. It is the first cryptocurrency protocol with a succinct blockchain (22KB).

Why Mina?​

The Mina Protocol is a native ZK blockchain, but what does this mean? The Mina Protocol is a layer 1 blockchain built to use zero knowledge proofs. The Mina Protocol uses zk-SNARKS.

Some advantages of this approach are:

  • A succinct blockchain that facilitates decentralization. The lightweight design allows a node to sync faster and reduces both storage and bandwidth requirements for node operators.
  • Zero knowledge proofs are used to secure the blockchain. Using recursive zk-SNARKs, the blockchain remains a constant size — about 22 KB. Client-side code execution: zkApps run code on the client, helping to scale blockchain technology. Client-side code execution generates zk-SNARKS (proofs) to prove correct execution. Transactions send these proofs to the blockchain and are verified on-chain.
  • Privacy by default, protect your data using zero knowledge proofs.

Learn more about Mina's unique protocol architecture.

What are zero knowledge proofs?​

Mina's unique characteristics are made possible using zero knowledge proofs.

Learn more in this video about zero knowledge proofs.

What are zkApps?​

Mina's zero knowledge smart contracts, known as zkApps, offer distinct features, including off-chain proving, extensive off-chain execution capabilities, on-chain verification, privacy for confidential data (private inputs, by default, are not sent to the blockchain), the option to code smart contracts in TypeScript, and additional functionalities.

See zkApps Overview.

How does consensus work on Mina?​

The Mina network is secured by proof of stake (PoS) consensus called Ouroboros Samisika.

Based on Cardano's Ouroboros, Ouroboros Samisika is a PoS consensus mechanism that requires far less computing power than Bitcoin's proof of work (PoW) protocol.

With this model of Mina's consensus mechanism, you don't need expensive and energy-consuming mining equipment to participate in consensus. By simply holding MINA in your wallet, you can choose to stake it yourself by running a block producer node or delegate your MINA to another node.