What is
Git command to create a local copy of a remote repository. First step for contributing to Ergo open-source projects on GitHub.
Cloning a repository means creating a local copy of a remote Git repository (like those on GitHub) on your computer. This is the first step for contributing to Ergo's open-source projects - you clone the repo, make changes locally, then submit a pull request. Ergo's core node, SDKs, documentation, and many ecosystem projects are on GitHub and welcome contributions. The command 'git clone [url]' downloads the entire repository including its history, allowing you to work offline and sync changes later.
Contributing to Ergo core development
Improving documentation
Building on ecosystem projects
Learning from open-source code
Running local development environments
To clone an Ergo repository: 1) Find the repo on github.com/ergoplatform, 2) Copy the clone URL (HTTPS or SSH), 3) Run 'git clone [url]' in terminal, 4) Navigate to the cloned directory, 5) Create a branch for your changes, 6) Make changes and commit, 7) Push and create a pull request.
Common questions about this topic
Ergo supports a full ecosystem: trade on Spectrum DEX, use SigmaUSD stablecoin, mix transactions with ErgoMixer, collect NFTs on SkyHarbor, mine with GPUs, lend/borrow on DuckPools, bridge to other chains via Rosen, and build dApps with ErgoScript. It's a complete platform for decentralized finance and applications.
Start by getting a wallet (Nautilus for browser, Terminus for mobile). Back up your seed phrase securely offline. Get some ERG from an exchange (Gate.io, KuCoin) or DEX (Spectrum). Make a test transaction. Then explore: try DeFi on Spectrum, check out NFTs, or dive into the technology if you're a builder.
eUTXO (Extended Unspent Transaction Output) is Ergo's smart contract model that extends Bitcoin's UTXO with programmable logic. Each 'box' contains ERG, tokens, data registers, and a guarding script. Transactions consume boxes and create new ones, enabling deterministic execution, parallel processing, and no reentrancy attacks.
Ergo provides tools for financial sovereignty: self-custody with no third parties, censorship-resistant transactions via PoW, optional privacy with Sigma Protocols, and programmable money without permission. Unlike VC-backed chains, Ergo has no central authority that can freeze funds or comply with sanctions. Your keys, your coins, your freedom.