Tron (TRX) is a decentralized blockchain platform which sees itself as a future operating system in which developers can use to deploy their own dApps (decentralized applications).

TRON Explained

In terms of architecture, Tron, much like Ethereum (ETH), employs an account-based model.

Its blockchain features three layers:

1. The Core Layer: in which instructions are computed and sent to the Tron Virtual Machine which will, in its turn, execute logic. Instructions are written in either Java or Solidity (which is a language specifically crafted for Ethereum).

2. The Application Layer: which is used by developers to create applications and wallets, all of which on the back of TRX crypto

3. The Storage Layer: which is where blockchain data and state data get segmented allowing for blockchain history to be recorded and smart contract status to be preserved.

Delegated Proof-of-Stake and Consensus

In Tron, consensus is achieved on its own ledger. Its system features 27 rotating “super representatives” who are responsible for validating transactions while recording and maintaining the system’s history.

These super representatives rotate every six hours and, when chosen, get the ability to earn TRX. Every 3 seconds a new block is added to the blockchain and whoever produces a valid block is awarded with 32 TRX.

Node Types

Three node types can be operated

1. Witness nodes: which propose blocks and cast votes on decisions about Tron’s protocols

2. Full nodes: which broadcast transactions and blocks

3. Solidity Nodes: which provide APIs and block full nodes

Staking Mechanism

“Tron Power” is a network resource in which Tron’s users vote on super representatives.

For every 1 TRX users lock in their account (meaning, they are prevented from spending it), they are awarded with 1 Tron Power. Tron Power cannot be traded.

The History Behind Tron

Tron was created as an Ethereum based token in 2017 by entrepreneur Sun Yuchen (also known as Justin Sun). Its own network started running in 2018 as investors traded in their Ethereum tokens (which were later destroyed) for TRX crypto.