iExec RLC (RLC) is a digital asset that operates on the Ethereum platform, with the aim of providing a decentralized computing environment. It seeks to establish a market network where individuals have the opportunity to monetize their computing power, applications, and datasets. iExec RLC is constructed on XtremWeb-HEP, an open-source desktop grid software that implements a variety of features including multi-applications, fault-tolerance, multi-users, deployment of virtual images, private infrastructure, data management, and security. The RLC token is given as a reward for contributing resources to the network, making it a crucial part of the iExec ecosystem.

iExec RLC operates by providing on-demand access to cloud computing resources. It utilizes a consensus protocol known as PoCo or proof-of-contribution, which provides consensus over off-chain computing. This proof-of-contribution verifies the usage of external resources on the blockchain itself. iExec also supports distributed applications running on the blockchain, providing scalable, secure, and easy access to servers, datasets, and computing resources. This decentralized cloud infrastructure seeks to enable cost-effective, high-performance computing.

iExec RLC seeks to support applications in various fields such as big data, healthcare, AI, rendering, and fintech. It allows application providers to monetize their algorithms, and data providers with valuable datasets to make them available for usage through iExec. It also enables users to connect their machines and be rewarded with RLC tokens for contributing their resources to the network. Furthermore, iExec RLC aims to overcome limitations within the Ethereum blockchain including scalability, privacy, and connectivity, enhancing the functionality of smart contracts.

iExec RLC was established on October 16, 2016, with the aim to reinvent cloud computing by creating a new cloud computing paradigm. The founders of iExec RLC are Gilles Fedak, the CEO and co-founder, and Haiwu He, the co-founder and head of APAC. Both founders have extensive backgrounds in philosophy and computer science, and have conducted research in the field of desktop grid computing at INRIA and CNRS. The iExec RLC project is built upon their work, aiming to leverage research technologies developed at these research institutes.

iExec RLC aims to facilitate access to computing power, datasets, and applications, which are provided by a decentralized network of resource providers rewarded with non-financial incentives in the form of RLC tokens. iExec RLC's marketplace allows resource providers and users to participate in a system where RLC tokens represent the engagement with computational resources and blockchain-based cloud services. This system intends to enable developers to access a wide range of computational resources without the need for substantial resource allocation. iExec RLC's consensus protocol, Proof of Contribution (PoCo), links the platform's distributed computing infrastructure with its decentralized cloud services marketplace, with the aim of facilitating interactions between marketplace participants.

iExec aims to create a secure and private environment for decentralized off-chain computing. It does this by leveraging blockchain technology and a unique consensus protocol known as Proof-of-Contribution (PoCo). The PoCo protocol is designed to validate off-chain computations, with the goal of ensuring security, confidentiality, and transparency between all parties involved in each transaction. Additionally, iExec utilizes Ethereum smart contracts and a decentralized cloud infrastructure to provide computing services on-demand. It also integrates technology that strives to provide a secure environment for processing results, with the aim of handling data securely. This combination of technologies and strategies is intended to help iExec maintain security and privacy in its decentralized off-chain computing network.

The iExec Marketplace is a decentralized platform that aims to provide a global exchange for computing assets. It utilizes advanced blockchain technologies and strives to provide a level of trust and traceability. The marketplace operates on a "work order" system where applications and users place orders for their tasks to be executed based on pre-selected criteria. On the other side, workers place a work order defining the terms at which they are willing to execute tasks. They are allocated RLC tokens upon work order completion. The marketplace introduces a new paradigm for computing assets, enabling them to be exchanged on a global scale, akin to other resources. Users have on-demand access to the resources they need, and a new pricing model labeled "Pay-per-Task" aims to provide flexibility to users. The platform is accessible to anyone and participants can determine their own terms in a peer-to-peer exchange without additional charges. The iExec Marketplace includes a consensus protocol called Proof-of-Contribution (PoCo) that aims to foster trust between all participants.

iExec participates in enabling off-chain computations for blockchain applications by providing a decentralized marketplace for cloud resources. This allows developers to execute complex computations off-chain, which aims to improve the scalability and efficiency of blockchain applications. iExec's consensus algorithm, Proof-of-Contribution (PoCo), seeks to ensure that all trades in the decentralized marketplace are implemented with a level of trust and security. iExec combines blockchain with confidential computing, which allows users to utilize digital resources while maintaining full ownership over them. This combination of blockchain and confidential computing provides potential avenues for individuals and companies to utilize their digital resources, including AI models, digital arts, and gaming assets.

iExec RLC strives to address the challenges of traditional cloud computing by creating a decentralized, open marketplace for cloud computing services. This marketplace connects service providers and users, allowing for on-demand access to computing power, datasets, and applications. Unlike centralized cloud computing services, iExec RLC operates on a decentralized network, which is furnished by resource providers who receive non-monetary incentives. This decentralization seeks to reduce the issues of centralization and data silos, as resources are not controlled by a single entity and data is not confined to specific systems. iExec RLC uses blockchain technology to facilitate transactions with transparency and security measures. It employs a Proof of Contribution (PoCo) consensus protocol to validate the contributions made by workers, providing full oversight over all transactions between marketplace participants. This approach seeks to offer a flexible, scalable, and market-oriented approach to the challenges of traditional cloud computing.

iExec RLC has been engaging with various organizations in the blockchain and cloud computing sectors. Some of these engagements include collaborations with Chainlink, Genesis Cloud, IBM Cloud, H7, Alibaba Cloud, BPI France, Scontain, Shift, Fortanix, TFCloud, Nerdalize, Intel, RSK, Ubisoft, Cloud & Heat, Stimergy, OpenFog, and the Enterprise Ethereum Alliance (EEA). These engagements aim to utilize the expertise and resources of industry leaders, contributing to iExec's capabilities and reach. For instance, the engagement with Chainlink seeks to consider the complex off-chain needs of next-generation decentralized applications. The engagement with IBM Cloud focuses on deploying IBM's Cloud Data Shield Technology to allow companies to consider decentralized cloud solutions with a high level of security. These engagements reflect iExec's focus on working towards a decentralized cloud computing platform.

iExec RLC provides a blend of Web3 and blockchain technology, offering solutions for businesses looking to utilize the aspects of decentralization, security, and trustless networks. iExec's platform includes a Web3 Marketplace, confidential computing capabilities, V8 update, Oracle Factory, and cross-chain capabilities, all designed to address the challenges of scalability, interoperability, and privacy in the digital age. The Web3 Marketplace is a platform where developers can engage in the exchange of decentralized applications, data, and services on a global scale. The confidential computing capabilities of iExec provide businesses with the opportunity to protect sensitive data and applications from unauthorized access or exposure, while still utilizing the aspects of blockchain technology. The V8 update seeks to enhance performance, scalability, and interoperability, making it easier for developers to build and deploy applications on the iExec platform. The Oracle Factory provides businesses with access to real-time data and information from a variety of sources, helping them make more informed decisions. Lastly, iExec's cross-chain capabilities provide businesses with the opportunity to utilize blockchain technology across multiple platforms and networks, addressing the limitations of traditional centralized systems.