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Directory Chain

Overview​

The Directory Chain serves as a critical system chain within the Chromia network, acting as the central registry and coordination hub for all network participants and chains. It provides essential infrastructure for network organization, authentication, and cross-chain communication.

Core functions​

Chain registry and management​

The Directory Chain maintains comprehensive records of the Chromia network:

  • Chain registration: Stores metadata and operational information for all chains:
    • Dapp chains
    • System chains
    • Test networks
  • Chain discovery: Enables efficient location and interaction between chains
  • Version management: Tracks chain versions and updates

Identity and authentication​

The Directory Chain provides crucial identity services:

  • Entity registration: Maintains secure records for:
    • Dapp deployments
    • Provider nodes
    • User identities
  • Authentication services: Enables secure verification mechanisms
  • Access control: Manages permissions and roles

Network governance​

The Directory Chain facilitates network-wide coordination:

  • Update management: Coordinates network-wide upgrades
  • Policy implementation: Ensures consistent application of network policies
  • Consensus updates: Manages protocol evolution
  • Economic policy: Coordinates with Economy Chain for policy implementation

Economy Chain integration​

The Directory Chain works in tandem with the Economy Chain to enable:

  • Fee management:
    • Validates provider eligibility for fee collection
    • Coordinates staking mechanisms
    • Supports reward distribution verification
  • Network operations:
    • Ensures registered chains meet network requirements
    • Validates provider service delivery
    • Coordinates cross-chain economic activities

Interoperability services​

The Directory Chain supports network-wide interaction:

  • Chain discovery: Provides lookup services for cross-chain communication
  • Protocol coordination: Ensures consistent standards across chains
  • Integration support: Facilitates multi-chain application deployment

Through these functions, the Directory Chain serves as the backbone of Chromia's network organization, enabling efficient operation of both system and application chains.