The internet's evolution from static pages to programmable platforms revolutionized how we communicate and work. This shift created interconnected digital ecosystems that power our modern world.
A similar transformation is now occurring onchain. While most blockchains treat data as passive storage, Irys redefines it as an active component of decentralized applications.
As the first programmable datachain, Irys turns data into dynamic infrastructure that triggers actions and interacts across applications. This breakthrough establishes data as a living system, powering the next generation of blockchain coordination.
What is Irys?
Irys revolutionizes datachains by embedding programmability directly into stored data. This innovation transforms static information into dynamic assets that can interact with applications, respond to external triggers, and participate in complex computational workflows across different ecosystems.
The platform enables developers to create applications where onchain data actively influences behavior, updates based on predefined conditions, and connects disparate systems. This transforms datachains from mere storage repositories into active participants in the decentralized computing landscape.
Who Created Irys?
Irys emerged from the vision of founder Josh Benalon, who established the project in March 2021 and continues to guide its development as CEO. Benalon's technical foundation was built through computer science studies at the University of Surrey, followed by practical engineering experience at VantagePoint and BAE Systems. His deep understanding of blockchain infrastructure was further demonstrated through creating Bundlr, the pioneering middleware solution that processes most transactions on the Arweave network.
Leadership and Technical Team
The core team combines diverse expertise across blockchain engineering, ecosystem growth, and strategic partnerships:
Jesse Wright (Lead Engineer): Oversees architecture and implementation of core protocol components
Gus Lobo (Chief Marketing Officer): Directs global brand strategy and community development initiatives
Tiffany L. (VP of Ecosystem & Partnerships): Brings extensive Web3 experience from previous roles at Avalanche and 0G Labs, complemented by a background in technology at Apple
Faris Oweis (AI Director): Formerly led business development at Eclipse, now focusing on AI integration strategies
Connor King: Specializes in decentralized application development and cross-chain interoperability solutions
The team operates primarily from the United Kingdom while maintaining a globally distributed network of contributors and technical advisors, enabling around-the-clock development and support across multiple time zones.
How Irys Works?
Irys introduces a revolutionary approach to blockchain data management by transforming static information into dynamic, programmable assets. Through its unique architecture, Irys enables data to not only be stored securely but also to execute predefined actions autonomously within its ecosystem.
Blockchain Infrastructure
Irys functions as a specialized Layer-1 blockchain that seamlessly merges programmable data storage with Ethereum Virtual Machine compatibility. The network operates as an independent ecosystem while maintaining full interoperability with major blockchain networks including Ethereum, Solana, Avalanche, and other leading platforms.
The infrastructure is built upon several groundbreaking components:
Autonomous Data Layer: A dedicated environment where information becomes active computational elements rather than passive storage
Dual-Ledger Framework: Implements a sophisticated two-phase validation system where data undergoes verification in a temporary submission ledger before achieving permanent status in the publication ledger
Advanced Consensus Protocol: Utilizes a unique hybrid mechanism combining Proof of Work validation with staking economics, reinforced by cryptographic verification systems
EVM-Native Execution: Maintains full compatibility with Ethereum's development ecosystem while introducing enhanced capabilities for data interaction
Technical Architecture
Irys represents a fundamental reimagining of how blockchain systems handle information:
Intelligent Data Objects: Enables developers to embed executable logic directly into stored data, allowing files to autonomously manage payments, trigger contractual obligations, or govern their own usage rights
Unified Execution Environment: The IrysVM provides a seamless bridge between traditional smart contract functionality and advanced data programmability, maintaining familiar development patterns while expanding capabilities
Cryptographic Assurance: Every data element undergoes rigorous real-time verification through advanced cryptographic proofs before achieving permanent onchain status
Enterprise-Grade Performance: Supports massive throughput capabilities exceeding 100,000 data operations per second while maintaining consistent low costs and instant accessibility
User Process
The platform streamlines user interaction through an intuitive workflow:
Data Onboarding: Users initiate the process by submitting data with specified parameters including storage duration and programmed behaviors, utilizing flexible payment options across multiple cryptocurrencies
Active Utilization: Applications can immediately access and interact with stored data, leveraging its embedded logic for automated processes and dynamic responses
Development Ecosystem: Provides comprehensive software development kits for popular programming languages and enables sophisticated smart contract integration for complex data automation and AI workflow orchestration
Irys (IRYS) Tokenomics and Distribution
Irys has established its economic foundation with a fixed initial supply of 10,000,000,000 IRYS tokens. The Token Generation Event (TGE) will introduce 2,000,000,000 tokens (20%) into initial circulation, while the remaining allocation follows carefully designed vesting schedules that promote long-term ecosystem sustainability and participant alignment.
Irys (IRYS) Token Distribution:
30.0% (3,000,000,000 IRYS) - Resources dedicated to application support, cross-chain integration, strategic partnerships, and protocol advancement. All funds are secured through multi-signature custody managed by leading institutional providers.
25.3% (2,530,000,000 IRYS) - Allocated across seed, strategic, and Series A investment rounds. These tokens are subject to a 12-month lock-up period followed by 36-month gradual release. Staking rewards remain restricted until full vesting completion.
18.8% (1,880,000,000 IRYS) - Reserved for founding members and technical advisors. Implements identical vesting conditions as investor allocations: initial 12-month cliff followed by three-year linear distribution, with staking benefits accessible only after vesting.
9.9% (990,000,000 IRYS) - Dedicated to protocol advancement, security verification, risk management, and initiatives that expand Irys's technological footprint while reducing blockchain's dependence on centralized systems.
8.0% (800,000,000 IRYS) - Deployed to establish robust trading environments across both centralized and decentralized platforms, ensuring smooth market operations from initial listing.
8.0% (800,000,000 IRYS) - Designed to acknowledge early supporters while maintaining reserves for ongoing incentive campaigns that attract aligned developers and active participants throughout ecosystem evolution.
Why Irys Matters?
Irys represents a paradigm shift in decentralized infrastructure, elevating data from passive storage to active participation. This transition mirrors the evolution from static web pages to dynamic web applications, fundamentally expanding what's possible in blockchain environments.
The platform enables developers to build applications where data and logic coexist in seamless harmony, creating new architectural patterns for decentralized systems that were previously impossible to implement.
Conclusion
Irys marks a critical evolution in blockchain infrastructure by transforming data into programmable assets. This advancement creates new foundations for developers building complex, interoperable decentralized systems where information serves as both resource and active participant.
As the ecosystem matures, programmable datachains like Irys will likely become essential infrastructure components, enabling sophisticated applications that leverage data's full potential across decentralized environments. The true value emerges not merely from storing information, but from enabling it to actively power the next generation of decentralized applications.
