Mina is a blockchain protocol that aims to streamline computational requirements for running DApps more efficiently. Mina's size is designed to remain constant, regardless of usage growth, aiming to balance security and decentralization. The Mina network is notably smaller in size compared to other blockchains. The protocol's primary objective is to create an efficient distributed payment system that allows users to verify the platform from the genesis block. Mina's native currency, MINA, is used within the network for various functions.

Mina operates in a way that is similar to other blockchain protocols, with a unique approach in how it handles transactions. It also employs the account model used in other platforms. Mina uses a prover, equivalent to a miner, to ensure each block commits to the state. The protocol uses the Ouroboros Samasika, a type of Proof of Stake (PoS) mechanism designed specifically for succinct decentralized networks. Mina's succinct blockchains have two main functions: verify and update. The protocol also uses a parallel scan state to optimize transaction processing speed, grouping unproven blocks and assigning the process to parallel provers.

Mina's approach to blockchain technology involves multiple participants each handling a specific function on the decentralized network. Its compact size and efficient operation make it suitable for running DApps more efficiently, even on devices with limited computational power. The protocol's use of Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Arguments of Knowledge (zk-SNARKs) allows for the authentication of information without revealing the information itself. This feature could be beneficial in applications where privacy and security are paramount. Furthermore, the native currency, MINA, is used within the network for transactions and interactions between users.

Mina Protocol was initially known as Coda Protocol before undergoing a rebranding. The protocol was developed with the aim of addressing computational requirements and maintaining a constant size despite usage growth. Mina's approach to blockchain technology involves multiple participants each handling a specific function on the decentralized network. These roles include verifiers, block producers, and snarkers, each playing a crucial part in the operation and maintenance of the network.

Unlike traditional blockchains that increase in size with each transaction, Mina maintains a constant size of around 22kb, thanks to a technology called zk-SNARKs (Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-interactive Argument of Knowledge). These are essentially snapshots of blockchain metadata, rather than the entirety of a dataset for each individual transaction. As the blockchain grows, these zk-SNARK "snapshots" contain a proof of its validity based on metadata, rather than the full blockchain history. The use of data in this manner is intended to enable more individuals to operate nodes. Mina Protocol employs a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism, which is different from the PoW mechanism used by many other blockchains. This combination of zk-SNARKs and PoS is intended to contribute to a blockchain infrastructure that is accessible and decentralized.

"Snarks" or "zk-SNARKs" (Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Arguments of Knowledge) are a type of cryptographic proof that allows one party to demonstrate to another that they know a value, without revealing any information other than the fact they know the value. In the context of Mina, zk-SNARKs are utilized to maintain a small, constant-sized blockchain that is approximately 22 kilobytes, irrespective of the number of transactions or smart contracts executed on the network. This aims to facilitate transaction processing, decrease storage requirements, and manage network performance. By using zk-SNARKs, Mina intends to verify the entire blockchain's history by checking a cryptographic proof that attests to the validity of each transaction without storing the full transaction history itself. This implies that any participant in the network can verify the blockchain's integrity without the need to store and process all the blockchain's data.

Mina Protocol strives to maintain a lightweight blockchain by leveraging a technology known as Zero-Knowledge Proofs (zk-SNARKs). This technology allows Mina to create a succinct blockchain, where the entire transaction history is represented by a small proof, regardless of the number of transactions. This proof, known as a zk-SNARK, is a mere 22KB in size, enabling the blockchain to remain consistently small and lightweight. This method seeks to reduce the necessity for network participants to download and verify the entire blockchain history, reducing computational requirements and promoting scalability. Mina utilizes a distinct node structure and a technical framework that includes a mechanism called Recursive Zero-Knowledge Proof. This mechanism allows Mina to efficiently verify each transition in real-time, regardless of the number of previous transitions in the system. This method strives to find a balance between scalability, decentralization, and security in maintaining a lightweight blockchain.

The Mina token (MINA) serves as the native currency within the Mina Protocol ecosystem. It plays a crucial role in maintaining the network's operations and security. MINA tokens are required for participation in block production and for the acquisition of SNARK proofs via the Snarketplace. This means that individuals or companies have the option to participate in the network's operations by becoming nodes or block producers, which is intended to contribute to the network's security. Alternatively, they can become SNARK producers, a role that is intended to contribute to the efficiency of transactions. All token holders have the option to stake or delegate their tokens. This process does not require lockup or bonding and is intended to encourage active participation, potentially contributing to increased decentralization. The intention behind this is to encourage a high level of staking participation, which could potentially enhance the level of decentralization.

Mina Protocol employs a Proof-of-Stake (PoS) consensus mechanism, which differs from the PoW mechanism used by networks like Bitcoin in terms of energy consumption. Mina's approach to decentralization involves the use of zk-SNARKs, or "Zero-Knowledge Succinct Non-interactive Argument of Knowledge". These are essentially snapshots of blockchain metadata, rather than the entirety of a dataset for each individual transaction. As the blockchain grows, these zk-SNARK "snapshots" contain a proof of its validity based on metadata, rather than the full blockchain history. This structure means that Mina nodes are processing smaller data sizes, making running nodes more viable for a wider demographic, and can therefore aim to foster a decentralized network.

Validators, also known as block producers, are responsible for batching unconfirmed transactions into a block and adding it to the last tip of the chain, a process for which they receive non-monetary incentives. Validators may be selected to add a block based on the Proof of Work (PoW) or Proof of Stake (PoS) mechanisms. In the PoS network, the stake a validator holds may influence their likelihood of being selected to produce a block. Validators may act in ways that could potentially benefit them, such as trades on a decentralized exchange where a validator could create a new path of the chain to benefit themselves. However, Mina uses the Ouroboros Samasika consensus protocol, which mathematically indicates that such forks may become less prevalent with parties adhering to the protocol on the network.

Mina Foundation, Inc., the organization behind Mina Protocol, aims to maintain the privacy of users' personal information. This includes contact information, communication preferences, and inquiry and communications information. Mina uses cookies and other tracking technology to collect information about users' interactions with the site. The protocol employs service providers that perform services on its behalf, such as customer service and marketing providers, who are bound by contractual obligations to keep personal information confidential. Mina uses personal information in its operations, fulfills user requests, and communicates with users. The protocol seeks to uphold the safety, security, and integrity of its site, technology assets, and business.

The "Snarketplace" in Mina is a unique marketplace where block producers acquire SNARKed state transitions from SNARK workers. This marketplace is a key component of Mina's design, which utilizes zk-SNARKs, or zero-knowledge Succinct Non-Interactive Argument of Knowledge, to maintain a compact and efficient blockchain. In Mina, block production is decoupled from computing SNARK proofs, a structure referred to as parallel scan state. This allows the network to adapt effectively as demand for transaction bandwidth increases. In the Snarketplace, block producers post "asks" setting the minimum acceptable price for SNARKs, and SNARK workers, also known as "Snarkers", compete to meet those asks with "bids". Block producers acquire the most suitably priced zk-SNARKs and compensate the Snarkers with non-monetary incentives derived from their contribution to the chain. This system strives to maintain the Mina blockchain's succinctness and accessibility as it continues to evolve.

Mina's protocol provides a platform for DApp development, with its use of zero-knowledge proofs aiming to ensure transaction privacy. Mina's scalability, achieved by maintaining a constant-sized blockchain, is designed for applications that require transaction processing. Mina presents several use cases such as end-to-end data privacy, permissionless web oracles, and managing web identifiers, which developers may consider when building DApps. These DApps can have a variety of functionalities.