What is Cardano and what makes it different? Founded by Charles Hoskinson (co-creator of Ethereum), Cardano is an open-source blockchain that uses the Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism called Ouroboros. Unlike account-based networks, Cardano implements the eUTXO model (Extended Unspent Transaction Output). This system provides enormous technical predictability: network fees are deterministic and calculated before submitting the transaction, eliminating unforeseen smart contract failures. The infrastructure divides its operations into two distinct layers: Settlement Layer (CSL): Dedicated exclusively to processing transactions and transferring the token $ADA quickly and securely. Computation Layer (CCL): The flexible engine where smart contracts and dApps (decentralized applications) are executed. 🏛️ The Voltaire era and the decentralization milestone After implementing its governance updates (Eras Chang and Plomin), Cardano activated the technical proposal CIP-1694. This historical change allows any holder of $ADA to participate directly in votes or delegate their power to Delegated Representatives (DReps). Thanks to this, the protocol’s massive community treasury is managed autonomously by users, without depending on founding entities. 🚀 Innovations and current roadmap The network aims to expand mainstream adoption through interoperability and scalability integrations: Full connectivity: The integration of the omnichain messaging protocol LayerZero technically connects Cardano with more than 160 blockchains, opening the door to external stablecoin liquidity. Higher speed: The development of Ouroboros Leios aims to optimize Layer 1 performance to reach over 1,000 transactions per second (TPS). Institutional privacy: The sidechain associated with Midnight positions itself as a key solution for regulatory compliance regarding confidential data for enterprises $ADA