#Walrus is a decentralized data storage network and data availability layer (Data Availability) built on the Sui blockchain, aimed at blockchain applications, Layer 2, and artificial intelligence. The platform allows for low-cost storage of large files such as images, videos, datasets, and application files, while ensuring security, transparency, and verifiability.

Instead of storing data directly on the blockchain, Walrus uses an off-chain storage mechanism combined with metadata and availability proofs recorded on the chain. When users upload data, the file is divided into multiple (slivers) and encrypted using the Red Stuff algorithm—a erasure coding system that distributes data across multiple nodes. Only a subset of the slivers is needed to recover the original data, reducing storage costs while maintaining high durability and availability.
Storage nodes must periodically send proofs that they still hold the data, ensuring the file always exists on the network. When users retrieve data, the system collects the necessary slivers from multiple nodes and quickly reconstructs the original file.
Walrus also offers Walrus Sites—a decentralized website solution that allows hosting static websites directly on the Walrus network and the Sui blockchain. Websites are linked to a Sui wallet, can connect NFTs, support SuiNS domain names, and are censorship-resistant.
Walrus has many practical applications such as: media storage for NFTs and DApps, storing datasets and AI models, blockchain history storage, providing data availability for Layer 2, and building decentralized websites. @WalrusProtocol $WAL