A concise overview of the Zcash network - what it is, how it works, and why privacy matters.
Zcash is a decentralised, open-source cryptocurrency that provides strong financial privacy using zero-knowledge proofs. It was launched in October 2016 by the Electric Coin Company and a team of world-class cryptographers.
Zcash transactions can be shielded (private) or transparent (public). Shielded transactions use the zk-SNARK proof system to verify validity without revealing sender, receiver, or amount.
Zcash's privacy is powered by zk-SNARKs - originally Sprout, then Sapling (2018), and now Orchard with Halo 2 recursive proofs. Each upgrade makes shielded transactions faster and more secure.
Read more: Network explained · Beginners guide