What is Boundless (ZKC)?

1. Purpose & Value Proposition

Boundless solves blockchain scalability and interoperability by offloading complex computations to a decentralized prover network. Developers submit tasks—like verifying cross-chain transactions or processing large datasets—and provers generate ZK proofs that are cheaply verified on-chain. This bypasses gas limits and block size constraints (Boundless Docs), enabling applications from DeFi to AI to run at internet scale without compromising security.

2. Technology & Architecture

The protocol uses a zero-knowledge virtual machine (zkVM) to execute arbitrary code while generating succinct proofs of correctness. Key innovations include:
- Proof of Verifiable Work (PoVW): Provers compete to solve computational tasks, measured in "proof work units" (Mining Docs).
- BitVM Integration: Leverages Bitcoin as a settlement layer for ZK proofs, enhancing trust via Bitcoin’s security (BitcoinWorld).
- Multi-Chain Support: Processes proofs for Ethereum, Base, and modular chains like Celestia.

3. Tokenomics & Governance

ZKC’s utility spans three functions:
- Prover Collateral: Provers stake ZKC to participate, with slashing for faulty work.
- Reward Mechanism: Stakers and provers earn ZKC for useful computation via PoVW epochs.
- Governance: Token holders vote on protocol upgrades and fee structures.
Token inflation starts at 7% annually, tapering to 3% by Year 8 to balance supply growth and incentives.

Conclusion

Boundless redefines blockchain scalability by turning computation into a verifiable commodity, secured by ZK cryptography and Bitcoin’s immutability. How will its permissionless prover network accelerate adoption of ZK-powered applications?