Web3 applications aiming to move from small-scale experiments to large-scale adoption face one of the biggest bottlenecks: data availability. This is not a new topic, but there has yet to be an ideal solution.

The Walrus protocol is built on the Sui blockchain, with a straightforward core idea—divide large files into fragments and disperse them across the network using erasure coding technology. This way, even if some nodes go offline, the system can recover the data through other nodes. Rather than just a storage solution, it addresses the data stability issues of dApps.

Mechanically, the $WAL token is the central hub for the entire system's operation. Nodes need to stake $WAL to maintain network security, and the protocol includes governance features to ensure the ecosystem can evolve autonomously. The design philosophy revolves around a core balance: reducing storage costs, ensuring data resistance to censorship, and maintaining reliability—all at once. While technically complex, this approach truly reflects the real needs of decentralized applications.

Currently, scenarios like RWA on-chain and GameFi expansion are increasing demands on the data layer. If such infrastructure projects can genuinely solve pain points, their importance within the ecosystem could grow significantly. However, the key still lies in whether the actual operation remains stable, whether cost advantages can be realized, and whether deep integration with mainstream blockchain ecosystems can be achieved. These are the true standards for evaluating the value of a data layer protocol.