General
Intermediate
Updated 1/15/2025
What is
Core Developer?
A developer working on Ergo's fundamental protocol, node software, or core libraries. Core devs maintain the blockchain's foundation and implement protocol upgrades.
Core developers are programmers who work on the fundamental components of the Ergo blockchain - the node software, consensus mechanism, cryptographic libraries, and protocol specifications. They maintain and improve the core codebase, implement EIPs (Ergo Improvement Proposals), fix critical bugs, and ensure network security. Ergo's core development is led by experienced cryptographers and blockchain engineers, with the codebase being open source for community review and contribution. Core developers are distinct from dApp developers who build applications on top of Ergo.
Key Points
- Works on Ergo node and protocol code
- Implements protocol upgrades and EIPs
- Maintains network security and stability
- Open source - code publicly reviewable
- Different from dApp developers
- Includes cryptographers and engineers
Use Cases
1
Understanding Ergo's development structure
2
Contributing to core development
3
Reviewing protocol changes
4
Following Ergo's technical roadmap
Technical Details
Ergo's core is primarily written in Scala, with the reference node implementation on GitHub. Core developers work on: consensus (Autolykos), networking (P2P protocol), transaction validation, ErgoScript interpreter, wallet functionality, and API endpoints. Changes go through code review and testing before release. Major protocol changes require miner voting for activation.
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Frequently Asked Questions
Questions about Core Developer
Common questions about this topic
How to get started with Ergo?
Start by getting a wallet (Nautilus for browser, Terminus for mobile). Back up your seed phrase securely offline. Get some ERG from a current exchange or verified venue, then make a small test transaction. After that, explore NFTs, mining, DeFi references, or the developer stack if you're a builder.
How-to
Getting Started
How to provide liquidity on Ergo?
Providing liquidity on Ergo depends on the current active DEX or AMM venue. In general, you deposit equal value of two assets into a pool, receive LP tokens representing your share, and earn a portion of trading fees. Spectrum Finance is historical/frozen since February 2024, so verify the active venue, contracts, liquidity depth, and withdrawal process before depositing funds.
How-to
DeFi
What is SigmaUSD and how does it work?
SigmaUSD is Ergo's algorithmic stablecoin, pegged to USD and backed by ERG reserves. It uses the AgeUSD protocol: users mint SigUSD by depositing ERG, while SigRSV holders provide reserve backing and absorb volatility. The reserve ratio (400-800%) ensures stability. No centralized issuer, no bank accounts - pure crypto collateral.
Explainer
DeFi
What is ErgoMixer and how does it work?
ErgoMixer is a non-custodial, trustless mixing service that breaks the link between your input and output addresses. It uses Sigma Protocols to prove you're entitled to withdraw without revealing which deposit was yours. Unlike centralized mixers, there's no trusted party who could steal funds or keep logs.
Explainer
Privacy