> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.swanchain.io/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.swanchain.io/~/changes/ydmkfe2iqCT7phfcbKsl/getting-started/protocol-stack.md).

# Protocol Stack

Cross Chain Computing Protocol

Swan Chain is designed as a full toolset AI Blockchain infrastructure, providing comprehensive solutions across storage, computing, bandwidth, and payments. The protocol stack is a multi-layered architecture that ensures efficient and secure operations within the Swan Chain ecosystem. Below is an overview of each layer in the protocol stack:

## Protocol Layers

<figure><img src="https://3478205236-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2FcvUWH8GhRCqvKwuN0BGF%2Fuploads%2Fium2XF6W9oavSZkh3Ze7%2Fimage.png?alt=media&amp;token=b5526658-f740-432a-8c5f-27ef458328a7" alt=""><figcaption><p>Protocol Stack</p></figcaption></figure>

1. [Consensus Layer](/~/changes/ydmkfe2iqCT7phfcbKsl/getting-started/protocol-stack/cross-chain-contracts.md)—responsible for smart contract execution and payment settlement.
2. [Peer-to-peer (P2P) Network](/~/changes/ydmkfe2iqCT7phfcbKsl/getting-started/protocol-stack/peer-to-peer-p2p-network.md)—defines how nodes locate and connect.
3. [Payment Channels](/~/changes/ydmkfe2iqCT7phfcbKsl/getting-started/protocol-stack/payment-channels.md) —facilitates fast and low-cost payments in the system.
4. [Service Discovery](/~/changes/ydmkfe2iqCT7phfcbKsl/getting-started/protocol-stack/service-discovery.md)  – Server nodes and reputation module for public service
5. [Market Provider](/~/changes/ydmkfe2iqCT7phfcbKsl/getting-started/protocol-stack/market-provider.md) - Entity that offers various computing and storage tasks to the network
6. [Storage Layer](/~/changes/ydmkfe2iqCT7phfcbKsl/getting-started/protocol-stack/storage-layer.md) — data stored on public blockchains or content addressable networks.
7. [Computing Layer ](/~/changes/ydmkfe2iqCT7phfcbKsl/getting-started/protocol-stack/computing-layer.md)— how a query is routed to a specific node for computing.
8. [CDN Layer ](/~/changes/ydmkfe2iqCT7phfcbKsl/getting-started/protocol-stack/cdn-layer.md)– how data is distributed and hosted on the global network
9. [Governance](/~/changes/ydmkfe2iqCT7phfcbKsl/getting-started/protocol-stack/token/governance.md) —manages schemas, treasure, and disputes.

<figure><img src="https://content.gitbook.com/content/cvUWH8GhRCqvKwuN0BGF/blobs/RsqtyApwksWlUQOPFbhe/image.png" alt=""><figcaption><p>A Sample implication of Protocol</p></figcaption></figure>