Stacks
Stacks is an open-source blockchain network that brings decentralized applications (dApps) and smart contracts to Bitcoin. By operating in harmony with Bitcoin, Stacks enables advanced functionality without compromising Bitcoin’s stability, security, or immutability. The platform leverages a unique Proof-of-Transfer (PoX) consensus mechanism and the security-focused Clarity programming language, allowing developers to build robust applications that were previously impossible on Bitcoin. Stacks harnesses the security, finality, and deep liquidity of Bitcoin, unlocking programmable capabilities while maintaining trust and decentralization. Today, Stacks has evolved into a leading ecosystem for decentralized innovation, hosting over 375 applications and startups, ranging from DeFi and NFTs to identity solutions and Web3 services. The platform demonstrates how Bitcoin’s network can extend beyond a store of value, powering real-world applications and fostering the next generation of decentralized financial infrastructure.
ABOUT STACKS
Stacks is the leading Bitcoin Layer-2 platform, enabling fast, low-cost Bitcoin (BTC) transfers while making Bitcoin programmable through layer-2 smart contracts.
Unlike standalone blockchains, Stacks anchors its blocks to the Bitcoin blockchain, inheriting Bitcoin’s security while adding the flexibility of smart contracts and modern blockchain functionality.
The platform uses a unique consensus mechanism called Proof-of-Transfer (PoX), where miners commit BTC to participate in block creation.
These Bitcoins are then distributed to STX holders who actively engage with the network, creating an innovative alignment between Bitcoin security and Layer-2 utility.
Stacks exemplifies how Bitcoin can evolve beyond a store of value, enabling programmable assets, decentralized finance (DeFi), and innovative Web3 applications, all secured by the world’s most trusted blockchain.
CORE TECHNOLOGY & ARCHITECTURE
Consensus via Proof-of-Transfer (PoX) – PoX allows miners to commit BTC in order to produce new Stacks blocks, linking the network’s security directly to Bitcoin’s hash power rather than relying on standalone Proof-of-Work or Proof-of-Stake systems.
Smart Contracts with Clarity – Stacks leverages the Clarity smart contract language, designed to be predictable, decidable, and security-focused, reducing the risk of bugs and vulnerabilities common in other blockchain environments.
Bitcoin-Anchored Finality – Each Stacks block is cryptographically anchored to a Bitcoin block, giving the ledger immutability and security backed by Bitcoin’s proven network.
sBTC & Two-Way Peg – Stacks is developing a decentralized two-way peg that enables users to transfer BTC to and from the Stacks layer via sBTC, making Bitcoin directly usable in smart contracts and decentralized applications (dApps).