AR.IO is a global network, protocol, and currency that enables the permaweb: the files, apps, webpages, and data permanently stored on the Arweave decentralized storage network.
The AR.IO Network is an open, ownerless, distributed network, with participation from operators, developers, and end users from around the world. The various nodes on the network, known as AR.IO Gateways, form a decentralized interface between users and the permaweb. Each gateway acts like a “Permaweb Service Provider” and supports the critical web services that apps need, like reading, writing, querying, and indexing Arweave data.
These gateways follow various network protocols to provide a uniform experience for developers and end users. In addition, each gateway is tasked with assessing the performance of their peers by participating in an observation and reporting protocol aimed at keeping the network healthy and holding gateway operators accountable.
The AR.IO Network will leverage a utility token to further proliferate access to and services for the permaweb. This token, referred to as IO or ɸ, is leveraged for various network utilities and incentives. This includes being a currency for services like the Arweave Name System (ArNS), stake used to join a gateway to the network, and distributed as an incentive for performing duties as a gateway.
