Chainlink (LINK) is a decentralized oracle network that seeks to connect smart contracts on the blockchain with real-world applications. Launched in 2017, Chainlink's goal is to provide smart contracts with data feeds, allowing them to interact with external systems. The network is supported by a diverse community of data providers, node operators, and smart contract developers. Chainlink's approach aims to integrate off-chain data into smart contracts, positioning it within the data processing field. The network also provides opportunities for users to become node operators, contributing to the network's infrastructure and receiving compensation in return.

Chainlink operates by using a network of decentralized oracle nodes. These nodes gather data from external sources, validate it, and relay it to smart contracts on the blockchain. This process enables smart contracts to interact with data that is outside their native blockchain. Chainlink's decentralized nature aims to make the data more reliable and secure, as it is not controlled by a single entity. The network also employs a staking mechanism, where node operators can lock up their LINK tokens as collateral. This collateral may be reduced if a node provides incorrect data, incentivizing honesty and accuracy among node operators.

Chainlink's capability to provide off-chain data to smart contracts opens up a broad range of potential use cases. It can be utilized in decentralized finance (DeFi) applications to provide price feeds, in insurance contracts to verify real-world events, and in gaming platforms to generate verifiable randomness. Chainlink also allows data providers to monetize their data by selling access to it directly through the network. Furthermore, the introduction of LINK staking is intended to incentivize participation, potentially contributing to a more robust oracle network.

Chainlink was co-founded by Sergey Nazarov and Steve Ellis in 2017. Before Chainlink, Nazarov co-founded several tech companies, including SmartContract, a platform that sought to connect smart contracts to external data and bank payments. Ellis, a computer science graduate from New York University, worked as a software engineer before co-founding Secure Asset Exchange, a company that aimed to facilitate easy web access to a decentralized asset exchange. The idea for Chainlink was born out of their shared vision to enable universally connected smart contracts. Since its inception, Chainlink has grown and established partnerships with various data providers.