Welcome
Hydra is a layer-two scalability solution for Cardano, which aims to increase the speed of transactions (low latency, high throughput) and minimize transaction cost.
This is the user manual for hydra-node, an implementation of the Hydra Head protocol, as originally published here. The hydra-node interfaces the Cardano blockchain, connects to other hydra-nodes on a dedicated overlay network, runs a simplified (coordinated) Hydra Head protocol, and provides an API to clients.
The Hydra Head protocol version 0.10.0 or newer is compatible with the Cardano
mainnet, which means it is possible to run a hydra-node on mainnet using real
funds.
Before running a hydra-node to take part in the Hydra Head protocol,
developers are strongly encouraged to review the known issues in
the documentation in order to understand the current limitations and the
possible consequences.
By using Hydra Head protocol version 0.10.0 or newer, you understand the
protocol is in development and that use of the hydra-node on mainnet is
entirely at your own risk.
You also acknowledge and agree to have an adequate understanding of the risks associated with use of the Hydra Head protocol version 0.10.0 or newer and that all information and materials published, distributed or otherwise made available on hydra.family and Hydra Github Repository is available on an ‘AS IS’ and ‘AS AVAILABLE’ basis, without any representations or warranties of any kind. All implied terms are excluded to the fullest extent permitted by law. For details, see also sections 7, 8 and 9 of the Apache 2.0 License.
Now, without further ado, read more about the protocol on the next page or jump right in to getting started using a local devnet.