What is Aztec (AZTEC)?

Deep Dive

1. Purpose & value proposition

Ethereum activity is generally visible on a public ledger. Aztec is designed to let developers build apps where sensitive information can stay private while the network can still verify that operations follow the rules. Potential uses include private payments and financial apps. Aztec’s overview describes the network as a decentralized Ethereum Layer 2 for private applications.

2. Technology & architecture

Aztec supports both private and public data and execution within an app. Private functions run on a user’s device, which creates a cryptographic proof; the network processes public functions, and transaction data and proofs are submitted to Ethereum for verification. A zero-knowledge proof demonstrates that something is valid without revealing the underlying details. Developers use Noir, Aztec’s language for writing smart contracts. Aztec documentation

3. AZTEC token

AZTEC is the network’s native token. Reports describe its roles as paying network fees, supporting staking to secure the network, and participating in governance. Token overview

Conclusion

Aztec is privacy-focused Ethereum infrastructure for building apps with a mix of confidential and public operations; AZTEC is the token intended to support its network. How well can Aztec make private apps both usable and verifiable?