Cardano (ADA) is a third-generation Layer 1 blockchain platform designed to deliver a more secure, scalable, and sustainable infrastructure for the development of decentralized applications (dApps), smart contracts, and digital identity solutions. Launched in 2017, Cardano aims to improve upon the limitations of earlier blockchains like Bitcoin and Ethereum by using peer-reviewed academic research and formal verification in its protocol development.
Cardano’s native token, ADA, is used for staking, transaction fees, and on-chain governance, making it a core component of the network’s decentralized economy. ADA can be bought on specialized exchanges and ADA can also be traded for using other cryptocurrencies.