What is
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.
Understanding Ergo's development structure
Contributing to core development
Reviewing protocol changes
Following Ergo's technical roadmap
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.
Common questions about this topic
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.
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.
Connect your Nautilus wallet to Spectrum Finance, select tokens to swap, review the rate and slippage, then confirm. Spectrum uses AMM liquidity pools for instant trades. You can also provide liquidity to earn fees. All trades are atomic - they complete fully or not at all, with no front-running possible.
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.