> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.aeternity.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.aeternity.com/aeternity-core-concepts/introduction.md).

# Introduction

The æternity blockchain is built on several fundamental concepts and technologies that work together to create a scalable, efficient, and developer-friendly platform. These core concepts form the foundation of æternity's architecture and feature set. Here you'll find detailed explanations of the protocol that governs the network, the innovative consensus mechanisms that secure it, and the unique features that set æternity apart from other blockchain platforms. Whether you're a developer looking to build on æternity, or simply want to understand how the technology works, understanding these core concepts is essential to grasping the full potential of the platform.

<table data-view="cards"><thead><tr><th></th><th data-hidden data-card-target data-type="content-ref"></th><th data-hidden data-card-cover data-type="files"></th></tr></thead><tbody><tr><td><a href="/aeternity-core-concepts/protocol.md">Protocol</a></td><td><a href="/aeternity-core-concepts/protocol.md">æternity Protocol</a></td><td><a href="https://839505583-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FggVl0Jqy6Dd8f38hGk63%2Fuploads%2FO7MHc7XJYKrtCX2zPCz5%2Fflip-30deg-gradient2.svg?alt=media&amp;token=9a5fcdda-f853-495e-a65b-ac9c4272af37">flip-30deg-gradient2.svg</a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/aeternity-core-concepts/aeternity-governance.md">Governance</a></td><td><a href="/aeternity-core-concepts/protocol/consensus-mechanisms/governance-and-weighted-coin-voting.md">Governance and Weighted Coin Voting</a></td><td><a href="https://839505583-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FggVl0Jqy6Dd8f38hGk63%2Fuploads%2FU6AxxjQIzLuS9z4AwiGP%2F15deg-gradient.svg?alt=media&amp;token=a2520256-1072-43f8-9a8d-3681276494bd">15deg-gradient.svg</a></td></tr><tr><td><a href="/hyperchains.md">Hyperchains</a></td><td><a href="/aeternity-core-concepts/hyperchains.md">Hyperchains</a></td><td><a href="https://839505583-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FggVl0Jqy6Dd8f38hGk63%2Fuploads%2FCQSXhCg0DOWaYXlQi3R2%2Fflip-30deg-gradient2.svg?alt=media&amp;token=5a88b820-3dfe-4177-8b8a-ee10a56078a4">flip-30deg-gradient2.svg</a></td></tr></tbody></table>


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