# Aleph Cloud > Aleph Cloud is decentralized cloud infrastructure — computing, storage, and hosting on a permissionless network. ## Products & solutions - [Aleph Cloud — AI & Web3 Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/): Aleph Cloud is the decentralized cloud platform for Web3 and AI. Deploy VPS, host websites, run GPU workloads, and confidential VMs. AI-ready infrastructure powered by a global network. - [Terms and Conditions of Aleph Cloud start-up program](https://aleph.cloud/Terms-and-Conditions-Acceleratooor/): Ensure your projects align with our guidelines for responsible cloud usage. - [$ALEPH Token — Crypto, Staking, Governance & Utility | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/aleph-token/): The ALEPH token powers the Aleph Cloud supercloud: pay for cloud services, stake to earn rewards, provide liquidity, and run nodes. Available on 6 chains. - [Aleph Cloud x Chainlink BUILD — VRF & Decentralized Infrastructure](https://aleph.cloud/chainlink-build/): Aleph Cloud is a Chainlink BUILD partner. Integrating Chainlink VRF for verifiable randomness in decentralized applications and on-chain gaming. - [Aleph Cloud Collective — Community & Governance | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/collective/): Join the Aleph Cloud collective: community governance, DAO proposals, staking, and network participation. - [Decentralized Cloud Computing — GPU, CPU & AI Instances | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/computing/): Run GPU and CPU workloads on decentralized infrastructure. AI inference, training, rendering, and heavy compute with optional confidential execution. Pay per use. - [Contact Aleph Cloud — Support & Partnerships](https://aleph.cloud/contact/): Get in touch with Aleph Cloud for technical support, partnership inquiries, or enterprise solutions. Email, Discord, Telegram. - [Decentralized Cloud Solution for Enterprises & Web3 | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/decentralized-cloud-solution/): A decentralized cloud solution to build and run dApps: distributed storage, off-chain computing, and web hosting on a global network — privacy-first, resilient, and scalable with no vendor lock-in. - [Aleph Cloud Ecosystem — Partners, dApps & Integrations | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/ecosystem/): Explore the Aleph Cloud ecosystem: decentralised frontends for Aave, dYdX, Liquity, and more — hosted on permissionless infrastructure with no single point of failure. - [Aleph Cloud for Enterprises — Sovereign, Compliant Cloud | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/enterprises/): Run mission-critical enterprise workloads on a sovereign, scalable decentralized cloud — built for security, compliance, and performance, with confidential computing and no single point of failure. - [Decentralized Cloud Glossary — Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/glossary/): Plain-language definitions of decentralized cloud computing terms: CRNs, confidential VMs, TEEs, PAYG, IPFS, and more. - [Decentralized Cloud Infrastructure — Nodes, CRN & Network | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/infrastructure/): How Aleph Cloud's decentralized infrastructure works: compute resource nodes (CRN), core channel nodes (CCN), global distribution, and resilience. - [Decentralized Cloud Products — VPS, Storage, Hosting, Indexing | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/products/): All Aleph Cloud products: decentralized VPS, web hosting, cloud storage, blockchain indexing, confidential VMs. Compare features and pricing. - [Decentralized Cloud Use Cases — AI, Gaming, DeFi & Web3 | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/use-cases/): Real-world use cases for decentralized cloud: AI inference, cloud gaming, DeFi infrastructure, NFT metadata, Web3 dApps, and blockchain node hosting. - [Decentralized VPS — AI, Ethereum & Web3 Virtual Private Server | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/vps/): Deploy a decentralized VPS for AI workloads, crypto nodes, Ethereum validators, and Web3 apps. GPU-ready, confidential computing with AMD SEV. Pay with crypto or card. - [Web3 Hosting — Decentralized Website Hosting | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/web-hosting/): Host your Web3 website or AI-powered dApp on decentralized infrastructure. IPFS-based, censorship-resistant hosting with custom domains. Deploy in minutes on Aleph Cloud. - [What is Decentralized Cloud Computing? | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/what-is-decentralized-cloud-computing/): Decentralized cloud computing distributes compute and storage across independent nodes, delivering enhanced security, censorship resistance, and cost efficiency compared to traditional cloud. ## Pricing comparisons - [Aleph Cloud vs AWS — Decentralized Cloud at Up to 67% Lower Cost](https://aleph.cloud/aleph-vs-aws/): Compare Aleph Cloud against AWS EC2. Up to 67% cheaper, with storage included, decentralized by design, and crypto-native payments. Migration guide included. - [Aleph Cloud vs Azure — Decentralized Cloud at Up to 69% Lower Cost](https://aleph.cloud/aleph-vs-azure/): Compare Aleph Cloud against Microsoft Azure VMs. Up to 69% cheaper, storage included, decentralized by design, no Microsoft account required. - [Aleph Cloud vs Google Cloud — Up to 61% Lower Cost](https://aleph.cloud/aleph-vs-google-cloud/): Compare Aleph Cloud against Google Cloud Compute Engine. Up to 61% cheaper, storage included, decentralized by design, no GCP project setup required. - [Aleph Cloud vs Scaleway — Decentralized Cloud at Up to 57% Lower Cost](https://aleph.cloud/aleph-vs-scaleway/): Compare Aleph Cloud against Scaleway. Up to 57% cheaper, storage included, fully decentralized — beyond what any single-jurisdiction European cloud can offer. - [Cloud Pricing Compared: Aleph vs AWS, Azure, GCP & Scaleway](https://aleph.cloud/cloud-comparison/): Compare Aleph Cloud vs AWS, Azure, Google Cloud & Scaleway. Up to 69% cheaper, storage included, decentralized — full pricing & capability comparison. ## Blog - [Web3 startup grant program | Twentysix Blog Article](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/1m-startup-program/): Startup Program to support Web3 companies and dApp builders within Ethereum, Base, Solana, BSC, Avalanche, and more - [2025 end-of-year review | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/2025-eoy/): 2025 Annual Report: Aleph Cloud evolves into a Sovereign Supercloud. Featuring integrations with Aave & dYdX, the Revolut listing, and new AI confidential computing. - [Unlocking Confidential Decentralized Computation with GPUs on Aleph.im | Twentysix Blog Article](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/aleph-cloud-supports-gpu/): Learn how Aleph.im uses GPU acceleration to secure and speed up confidential computations for various applications. - [Aleph.im launches Twentysix Cloud | Twentysix Blog Article](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/aleph-im-launches-twentysix-cloud/): Twentysix Cloud is an all-in-one, decentralized cloud marketplace, powered by aleph.im’s Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN) - [ALEPH Token now available on Revolut | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/aleph-listing-revolut/): Revolut officially lists ALEPH token, giving 60+ million users access to Aleph Cloud's decentralized infrastructure. - [Anima: Decentralized Identity & Reputation with Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/anima/): Anima.io uses Proof of Personhood (PoP) and Soulbound Tokens (SBTs) to verify real users while preserving privacy. - [Powering Ubisoft's Champions Tactics | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/champions-tactics-aleph-vrf/): Discover how Ubisoft’s Champs Tactics uses Aleph Cloud’s VRF for verifiable randomness and decentralized metadata storage, ensuring fairness, transparency, and Web3 innovation in gaming. - [Decentralized Cloud Gaming — How It Works | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/cloud-computing-for-gaming/): How decentralized cloud computing powers gaming: low-latency rendering, distributed GPU compute, and Web3 game infrastructure on Aleph Cloud. - [Cloud Sovereignty Should Include Architecture | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/cloud-sovereignty-should-include-architecture/): Europe's CADA debate is right to focus on cloud dependency. Sovereignty assessments should ask who can stop a workload, who can inspect it, and how those answers can be verified. - [Confidential VM Overview — Features, Security & Pricing | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/confidential-virtual-machine-overview/): Overview of Aleph Cloud's confidential virtual machines: AMD SEV encryption, isolated execution, use cases for healthcare, finance, and AI workloads. - [Confidential Virtual Machines — How Encrypted VMs Work | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/confidential-virtual-machines/): What are confidential virtual machines? How AMD SEV technology encrypts VMs to protect sensitive workloads. Deploy confidential VMs on Aleph Cloud. - [What is Decentralized Cloud Computing? How It Works in 2026 | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/decentralized-cloud-computing/): What is decentralized cloud computing? How distributed networks replace AWS & GCP with censorship-resistant, secure cloud infrastructure. Complete guide. - [Decentralized VPS Hosting — Run Crypto Nodes & Web3 Apps | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/decentralized-vps-hosting/): How to use decentralized VPS hosting for Ethereum nodes, crypto validators, and Web3 applications. Step-by-step guide with Aleph Cloud. - [Devcon 7 Bangkok | Twentysix Blog Article](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/devcon-7/): Join us at Devcon Bangkok - [Aleph Cloud x Eclipse: Decentralized Cloud for Modular L2 Applications](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/eclipse/): Aleph Cloud now supports Eclipse, bringing decentralized messaging, secure compute, and persistent storage to SVM-based Layer 2 applications. - [GPUs are now integrated into Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/gpus-are-now-integrated-into-aleph-cloud/): GPUs are now integrated into Aleph Cloud, providing high-performance computing for AI services, rendering, gaming, AI agents, and more. - [How to Host a Web3 Website — Step-by-Step Tutorial | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/how-to-host-a-web3-website/): Complete tutorial: how to host a website on decentralized Web3 infrastructure. IPFS, custom domains, and deployment with Aleph Cloud. - [Introducing the credit system | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/introducing-credit-system/): Learn how the new credit payment system will let users convert ALEPH tokens or stablecoins into cloud credits for seamless decentralized computing. - [The rise of OpenClaw AI agents | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/openclaw-ai-agents/): Learn how OpenClaw agents running on Aleph Cloud’s decentralized AI Supercloud enable secure, sovereign, always-on autonomous workloads. - [Earn with Your GPU — Decentralized Compute Node | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/put-your-gpu-to-work/): Put your GPU to work: earn rewards by contributing compute power to the Aleph Cloud decentralized network. AI inference, rendering, and more. - [How to Set Up a Decentralized Cloud VM with Aleph CLI](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/set-up-vm-aleph-cli/): Deploy a decentralized VM in 10 minutes with Aleph Cloud's Rust CLI. Install, fund with USDC/ALEPH, launch Ubuntu instances for ~$10/month, and SSH in. No Python, no centralized cloud. - [Aleph Cloud Sonic Integration | Scalable Web3 Infrastructure](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/soniclabs/): Aleph Cloud integrates with Sonic, enabling developers to build scalable, data-rich Web3 apps using decentralized storage, messaging, and compute. - [A unified credit system replaces all legacy payment methods | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/sunsetting-payg-holder-tier/): Learn how OpenClaw agents running on Aleph Cloud’s decentralized AI Supercloud enable secure, sovereign, always-on autonomous workloads. - [Revenue-Share Model for Decentralized Cloud | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/tokenomics-revenue-share/): Aleph tokenomics introduces a dual-stream rewards model for decentralized cloud operators: a transitional reward floor plus a usage-based revenue share. - [Twentysix Cloud integrates with Base | Twentysix Blog Article](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/twentysix-cloud-integrates-with-base/): Twentysix Cloud integrates with Base, providing developers with scalable storage, off-chain computing, and confidential VMs to build secure and efficient dApps with cross-chain capabilities. - [Twentysix Cloud Adds Holder-Tier on Solana, Avalanche & Base | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/twentysix-cloud-integrates-with-solana/): Twentysix Cloud now offers holder-tier payments on Solana, Avalanche, and Base — scalable decentralized storage, off-chain computing, and confidential VMs for secure cross-chain dApps. Just hold ALEPH to build. - [Ubisoft Captain Laserhawk: dynamic NFTs in onchain gaming | Twentysix Blog Article](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/ubisoft-captain-laserhawk-dynamic-nfts/): Discover how aleph.im and Ubisoft are transforming NFTs with dynamic metadata for more interactive and evolving gaming experiences. - [IPv4 Connectivity & Custom Domains for Decentralized Apps | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/unlocking-ipv4-connectivity/): Enable IPv4 access and custom domains for your Aleph Cloud apps. Bridge IPv4/IPv6 and boost accessibility with secure, automated gateways. - [What Are Trusted Execution Environments (TEE)? Confidential Computing Explained | Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/what-is-tee/): Trusted Execution Environments explained: how AMD SEV, confidential VMs, and secure enclaves protect data during computation. Complete TEE guide by Aleph Cloud. ## Full content - [llms-full.txt](https://aleph.cloud/llms-full.txt): this manifest plus the full text of every blog article --- # TwentySix Cloud Announces $1M Startup Program URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/1m-startup-program/ Published: 2024-11-05T15:42:47.098Z [TwentySix Cloud,](https://www.twentysix.cloud/) the decentralized cloud marketplace powered by the aleph.im network, today launched a $1 million startup program to support Web3 startups in transitioning to decentralized Web3 cloud infrastructure. The TwentySix Cloud Startup Program provides essential compute power, storage, and tools to help companies scale decentralized applications across sectors like DeFi, AI, and gaming. Centralization remains a significant issue in blockchain ecosystems, with up to [90% of layer-one blockchain nodes hosted on centralized public clouds](https://storecloud.org/research/store-cloud/node-centralization) like Amazon AWS and Microsoft Azure, according to a recent Store Cloud report on node decentralization. ![Aleph Cloud Web3 startup grant program](../../assets/blog/$1m-startup-program/img-1.jpg) ***"From the beginning, decentralization has been a core principle of blockchain networks and cryptocurrency," ****said Jonathan Schemoul, CEO of TwentySix Cloud. ****"TwentySix Cloud provides a secure, scalable alternative to traditional cloud services, allowing businesses to innovate without compromising on security or performance. Our mission is to support the next generation of decentralized applications with flexible and easy-to-use infrastructure."*** ## Startup Program Highlights The TwentySix Cloud Startup Program is designed to help Web3 companies and dApp builders within the Ethereum, Base, Solana, BSC, Avalanche, Polkadot, and Cosmos ecosystems. Participants will receive: - **Up to $1 million in decentralized cloud resources, **including computing power and storage. **• Personalized support from Web3 and blockchain experts **to guide development. **• Seamless cross-chain interoperability **to help projects scale effortlessly across multiple blockchains. TwentySix Cloud operates on aleph.im’s decentralized network, which comprises over [115 core channel nodes and 640+ compute nodes,](https://account.aleph.im/earn/ccn/) offering reliability comparable to traditional cloud providers but with the added benefits of decentralization. **** In addition to the program, participants can access TwentySix’ pay-as-you-go model which offers flexible, cost-effective solutions for developers. Startups gain access to decentralized compute power with on-demand virtual machines, secure file storage via IPFS, and developer tools like multi-chain indexing and verifiable random functions; all with seamless cross-chain interoperability across Solana, Ethereum, Tezos, and Cosmos ecosystems. To learn more about TwentySix Cloud’s Startup Program, visit: [**https://www.twentysix.cloud/acceleratooor**](https://www.twentysix.cloud/acceleratooor) ## More information: **About TwentySix Cloud** [Twentysix Cloud](https://twentysix.cloud) is a cross-chain cloud solution powered by the aleph.im decentralized network, which offers developers access to databases, computing power, and file storage. It ensures operational resilience for applications, particularly in AI, DeFi, and gaming industries. Twentysix works with [Ubisoft](https://venturebeat.com/games/ubisoft-partners-with-aleph-im-on-blockchain-games/), [Solana](https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2021/08/19/2283608/0/en/Aleph-im-Introduces-Decentralized-Indexing-for-the-Solana-Ecosystem.html), [Request Finance](https://www.request.finance/post/request-partners-with-aleph-im-expanding-decentralized-storage-of-invoicing-data-on-the-blockchain). Since 2020, its marketplace has provided scalable, high-performance Instances and Micro-Virtual Machines resources on several networks such as Ethereum (and its L2s), Solana, Cosmos or Tezos. **About aleph.im** [Aleph.im](https://aleph.im) is a decentralized physical infrastructure network that enables developers and businesses to build applications with robust features thanks to a system of connected nodes responsible for the security and functionality of the peer-to-peer network. --- # 2025 annual report and 2026 outlook URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/2025-eoy/ Published: 2025-12-31T11:30:15.192Z ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/2025-EOY/img-1.svg) **We successfully consolidated our offerings, streamlined our infrastructure, and proved our utility as a critical backup layer for the Web3 economy. This year was about maturation moving beyond experimental phases to become the reliable, censorship-resistant backbone for major DeFi protocols and AI. With 245 qualified leads generated through targeted outreach, participation in 8 major industry events including EthCC, ETHDenver, Solana Breakpoint, and DevConnect, and the adoption in anticipation of our new payment system by 8 companies, Aleph Cloud has established itself as an independent reliable infrastructure partner.** ### Operational consolidation: TwentysixCloud integration A major strategic shift this year was the complete integration of Twentysix Cloud into the core Aleph Cloud ecosystem. We made the decision to shut down Twentysix as a standalone brand to unify our user experience. This consolidation eliminates fragmentation, allowing us to focus all development resources on a single, robust platform that offers seamless pay-as-you-go access to storage, compute, and confidential processing. Users now access our full suite of services directly through the unified Aleph Cloud interface, simplifying the onboarding process for both Web2 enterprises and Web3 natives. ### Decentralized frontend marketplace In Q4, we launched the [**Decentralized Frontend Marketplace**](/ecosystem/), addressing the industry's critical need for censorship resistance and access redundancy. This marketplace allows protocols to host immutable, self-hosted frontends, ensuring their users maintain access even if traditional access points fail. We are now **securing major DeFi protocol frontends** through independent access points hosted on our network. Aave, which holds $33.1 billion in total value locked across 14 different blockchain networks, secured a backup frontend on our marketplace. The [**Aave**](https://ethlend.aleph.cloud) ecosystem encompasses over 100K monthly users, making this integration a vital redundancy layer for one of DeFi's most critical primitives. Similarly, [**dYdX**](https://dydx.aleph.cloud), which commands $2.18 billion in TVL and facilitates $45-60 billion in monthly trading volume with over 250,000 active traders, established its decentralized frontend on our infrastructure. [**Liquity**](https://liquity.aleph.cloud), managing $3.15 billion in total value locked through its borrowing protocol, also integrated to ensure immutable access to its LUSD ecosystem. These integrations serve as vital redundancy for ecosystems managing hundreds of billions in user assets. By facilitating these community-run access points, Aleph Cloud has positioned itself as the *"fail-safe"* of the open web ensuring that even in scenarios of DNS hijacking, regulatory pressure, or centralized server outages, users retain uninterrupted access to critical financial infrastructure. ### Confidential computing and AI infrastructure We continued to advance our capabilities in confidential computing (TEE) to support the growing demand for decentralized AI. Our infrastructure now hosts secure workloads for autonomous agents, including recent implementations with [Libertai](https://libertai.io/). By combining our specialized Compute Resource Nodes (CRNs) with confidential execution environments, we provide the privacy guarantees required for enterprise-grade AI model inference and sensitive data processing. This positions Aleph Cloud at the intersection of infrastructure resilience and emerging AI requirements. ### Ecosystem access and growth Accessibility remained a core focus throughout 2025. A significant milestone was the listing of the [ALEPH token on Revolut](/blog/articles/aleph-listing-revolut/), opening access to over 60 million users across the EEA and UK. This integration allows users to acquire ALEPH directly within their banking application, significantly lowering the barrier to entry for European users seeking to participate in our compute economy. We also expanded our developer tooling with the release of the new Rust SDK (aleph-rs) and major updates to our Python and JavaScript libraries. These improvements, alongside full IPv4 support across our cloud offerings, ensure that Aleph Cloud remains compatible with legacy systems while pushing the boundaries of decentralized performance. These SDKs enable developers to integrate with our network across all major programming environments. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/2025-EOY/img-2.svg) **Deploy your own confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Get strated](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/new/) ### Enterprise adoption: new payment infrastructure A breakthrough development this year was the rollout of our new credits-based payment system, designed to streamline enterprise deployments. Eight companies have **already adopted this system**, demonstrating strong market demand for flexible, predictable billing in the decentralized infrastructure space. This payment model allows enterprises to pre-purchase computational credits and deploy them across the network. This innovation removes a significant friction point for traditional businesses evaluating decentralized alternatives to centralized cloud providers. This new payment system introducing stablecoins, will be available to everyone in early 2026. ### Community engagement: Events and partnerships Our commitment to the Web3 ecosystem was demonstrated through active participation in the industry's most important convenings. Over the course of 2025, we attended eight major conferences and developer events. Key engagements included connecting with the Ethereum community at EthCC 2025 in Paris, engaging builders at ETHDenver 2025 in Colorado, expanding our cross-chain narrative at Solana Breakpoint 2025 in Barcelona, and deep-diving into confidential computing at DevConnect 2025 in Buenos Aires. Additionally, we maintained a consistent presence at four other tier-one events across diverse blockchain ecosystems.These engagements generated 245 qualified leads representing genuine interest from enterprises, developers, and institutional stakeholders evaluating decentralized infrastructure for production deployments. This lead generation validates our market positioning and the growing recognition of Aleph Cloud as a viable alternative to centralized cloud infrastructure. ### Upcoming changes While we did ship and improve the network quite a lot over the year, it’s also important to highlight the points where we need to improve.Moving forward, we will announce and manage all incidents and operations through this channel.First, expect more transparent communication. We have too often been building in submarine mode or fixing issues without communicating in depth about what was happening. The first step in improving that was the release of the [Aleph Cloud status page](https://status.aleph.im/). Secondly, expect Aleph Cloud to be much more stable and performant. Over the last few months, we focused on fixing stability and performance issues that had been plaguing some features. Expect more releases oriented towards improving the network at the start of the year. But, let’s face it, the current technical architecture is showing its age and it is time for a significant update. We are also aware that node operators have been expecting the credits release and new tokenomics in hope of making the network more sustainable. We want to say that we hear you and share the same goal, but that tokenomics alone will not be the solution. Our main mission for 2026 is to move from a subsidized model where node rewards come from incentive pools to a self-supporting economy where nodes are paid by revenue generated from actual usage. This is why we’re taking the time needed to make sure the credit system and tokenomics align with what’s coming next. Because a lot is coming, and we want to do this once, properly, in a way that compounds. ### What’s coming for 2026? The core mission of Aleph Cloud is to provide a decentralized alternative to hyperscaler cloud services: **a cloud service that cannot be evil by design and that provides resilience against technical incidents**, tech giants and states drunk on their own power, and geopolitical instability. The recent outages of major providers as well as increasing political instability make us believe more than ever in the necessity of this mission. While it is already partially fulfilled by the services we provide today, the current scale at which we operate will not suffice. We need to bridge the gap to **datacenter scale**: support up to millions of machines on the network powering billions of users. Our focus will remain on enterprise adoption, with the continued expansion of our credits-based payment system and further partnerships with ecosystem players requiring resilient, decentralized alternatives.To achieve this, we need a new architecture. Internally, we call it Aleph v2. Concretely, v2 is designed around the following properties: - **Exabyte-class storage**: designed for massive scale, with durability guarantees and efficient retrieval. - **Verifiable, confidential compute**: a system where every workload can be verified by the user and where data is confidential by default. - **Cloud-grade performance,** on par with AWS or Azure. - **Resilience**: workloads and data can fail over and migrate across locations in response to incidents, without requiring any intervention from dev ops teams. - **Developer experience**: provide compatibility with the tools teams already know (ex: S3, Kubernetes). This won’t happen in a day, and it won’t ship as a single upgrade. We’re going to do what good infrastructure teams do: deliver it in stages, with each stage adding real capability without breaking production. We will first publish a technical article describing the details of the Aleph v2 architecture around end of January. **The foundation is built, and the Supercloud is open for business.** --- # Aleph integrates GPUs to power advanced decentralized AI URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/aleph-cloud-supports-gpu/ Published: 2024-12-11T12:08:58.768Z ## What is TEE? **The integration of confidential decentralized computation (CDC) and GPU acceleration is transforming the landscape of secure and efficient data processing. These technologies offer a groundbreaking approach to protecting sensitive information while achieving unparalleled computational performance. By harnessing CDC to ensure data privacy and leveraging GPUs for high-speed processing, we can securely manage and analyze data across distributed networks, unlocking new possibilities for innovation.** ## Confidential Decentralized Computation [Confidential decentralized computation](/blog/articles/confidential-virtual-machine-overview/), or CDC, is a paradigm shift in data processing. It enables secure computation on sensitive data without compromising its privacy. By leveraging cryptographic techniques and secure hardware enclaves, CDC ensures that data remains encrypted throughout the entire computation process, even from the computing nodes themselves. This approach mitigates the risk of data breaches and unauthorized access. **The Power of GPUs,** originally designed for rendering graphics, have evolved into powerful parallel processing engines. Their ability to perform numerous calculations simultaneously makes them ideal for accelerating a wide range of computational tasks, from machine learning and scientific simulations to data mining and cryptography. By integrating GPU acceleration into CDC, we can unlock the full potential of both technologies. This combination offers several significant advantages: ** • Enhanced Privacy:** CDC ensures that data remains encrypted during computation, while GPU acceleration can be used to perform complex cryptographic operations efficiently. ** • Improved Performance:** GPUs can significantly accelerate the execution of computationally intensive tasks, such as training large machine learning models or breaking cryptographic ciphers. **• Scalability:** CDC can be scaled across multiple nodes, and GPU acceleration can be used to distribute the workload among these nodes, further improving performance and scalability. ** • Reduced Latency:** By offloading computationally intensive tasks to GPUs, we can reduce the overall latency of the computation process. ![Encrypted Memory TEE discover confidential VM](../../assets/blog/Aleph-Cloud-supports-GPU/img-1.svg) **Get access to the private beta** Secure your place to use our GPU cluster before everyone else. [Learn more](https://us17.list-manage.com/survey?u=40af570491d53f28c5ae6f1ab&id=3f54b5013a&attribution=false) ## Our approach: QEMU Hypervisor and PCI-Passthrough To realize the benefits of CDC and GPU acceleration, we employed a novel approach using the [QEMU hypervisor](https://www.qemu.org/) and PCI-passthrough technology. This approach allows us to securely isolate GPU resources within a confidential computing environment. ** • QEMU Hypervisor:** QEMU, a versatile virtualization platform, provides a secure and isolated environment for running virtual machines. By leveraging QEMU’s capabilities, we can create a trusted execution environment (TEE) for confidential computation. ** • PCI-Passthrough:** PCI-passthrough enables direct access to hardware devices, such as GPUs, from within a virtual machine. This allows us to harness the full power of the GPU for accelerating computations within the TEE. By combining QEMU and PCI-passthrough, we can create a powerful and flexible platform for [confidential decentralized computation](https://aleph.im/) with GPU acceleration. This approach offers a high degree of security and performance, making it suitable for a wide range of applications, including: **• Secure AI and Machine Learning:** Training and deploying machine learning models on sensitive data without compromising privacy. **• Private Data Analytics:** Analyzing large datasets while preserving data confidentiality. **• Blockchain and Cryptocurrency:** Securing blockchain transactions and mining operations. **• Secure Remote Rendering:** Rendering complex graphics and virtual reality experiences remotely without exposing sensitive data. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/Aleph-Cloud-supports-GPU/img-2.svg) **Get early access to our GPU cluster** The GPUs resources are currently on beta access only and will be live for the general public in January 2025. [Beta early access](https://us17.list-manage.com/survey?u=40af570491d53f28c5ae6f1ab&id=3f54b5013a&attribution=false) ## Conclusion The combination of confidential decentralized computation and GPU acceleration marks a pivotal advancement in secure and efficient data processing. By capitalizing on the strengths of these technologies, we can tackle pressing challenges in data privacy, security, and computational performance. Our innovative use of QEMU and PCI-passthrough offers a flexible and scalable framework, unlocking the transformative potential of secure data computation across diverse applications. ![Encrypted Memory TEE Build your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/Aleph-Cloud-supports-GPU/img-3.svg) **Build with Twentysix** Implement Confidential Virtual Machines today and lead the way in privacy-first computing. [Get Started Now](https://docs.aleph.cloud/computing/confidential/) --- # GPUs are now integrated into Aleph Cloud URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/gpus-are-now-integrated-into-aleph-cloud/ Published: 2024-12-27T14:21:10.537Z ## What is TEE? GPUs are now integrated into [Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.im/), providing **high-performance computing for AI services, rendering, gaming, AI agents, and more.** We are proud to announce a significant milestone for our decentralized cloud ecosystem with the latest integration of GPUs. The new Aleph Cloud Core Channel Node application introduces **GPU integration**, a transformative feature that positions Aleph Cloud as a powerful and more competitive solution for high-performance computing needs. In addition, this release brings account management capabilities, pricing estimations, and a host of performance improvements, making Aleph Cloud an even more robust platform for developers and enterprises alike. With **GPU support,** users can now unlock unparalleled computing power for tasks such as AI training, rendering, gaming, and running AI agents. By leveraging decentralized infrastructure, Aleph Cloud offers both scalability and flexibility at highly competitive prices, all through the convenience of a Pay-as-You-Go (PAYG) model using ALEPH tokens. ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/GPUs-are-now-integrated-into-aleph-cloud/img-1.svg) ## Revolutionizing cloud computing with GPU integration The integration of **GPUs into Aleph Cloud** marks a pivotal step forward. By enabling access to both consumer-grade and enterprise-grade GPUs, users can now select the exact resources they need through our intuitive interface at [console.twentysix.cloud](https://console.twentysix.cloud/). This empowers them to scale their workloads seamlessly, whether they are building machine learning models, rendering complex graphics, or powering cloud-based gaming platforms. Each GPU model is paired with specific **vCPU, RAM, and disk allocations**, ensuring peak performance for any workload. For example, an RTX 4090, ideal for gaming or smaller AI projects, will cost around* $240 per month**, while an enterprise-grade H100, designed for data-intensive operations, *costs approximately $1,920 per month**. ## Enhanced Pay-As-You-Go model Aleph Cloud’s **PAYG model** is designed to offer flexibility and cost transparency, a critical advantage for businesses and developers. With ALEPH tokens as the exclusive payment method, users can enjoy a seamless payment experience across blockchains like Base, and Avalanche. This ensures not only affordability but also accessibility to a global audience. Additionally, when a user provisions a GPU-powered virtual machine and initiates a payment, the system will automatically create two payment streams. **80% of the payment will be allocated directly to the node operator providing the compute power, while 20% will contribute to the Aleph Cloud treasury.** This model ensures a fair and sustainable distribution of resources, incentivizing node operators while also reinvesting in the continued growth and development of the Aleph Cloud ecosystem. The pricing structure is straightforward yet highly competitive. For instance: - **Consumer GPUs like the RTX 4090 are priced at *~$111 per month**, while an RTX 4000 ADA costs only *~$55 per month**.** - **Enterprise GPUs such as the A100 and H100 are geared towards intensive tasks, priced at *~$875 and ~$583 per month**, respectively.** This transparent structure enables users to budget accurately, scaling their resources as their projects evolve. ***GPU*** ***AWS*** ***GCP*** ***Runpod*** ***Aleph Cloud*** **H100** $9 132,60 $8 228,64 $1 480,56 **$874,94** **A100** $3 047,61**** $2 730,48 $885,36 **$583,30** **L40S** $587,76 **$223,20** **RTX 4090** $252,96 **$111,60** **RTX 3090** $163,68 **$74,40** ## New features for an optimized user experience In addition to GPU integration, this release introduces several features aimed at enhancing performance and usability. Among the key highlights: - **Aggregates Caching:** By implementing caching for owner aggregates and metrics data, the platform now offers faster response times and smoother performance. - **Pricing Estimation: **Users can now estimate the cost of executable messages before sending them, providing greater transparency and control. - **Pre-Calculated Balances: **This feature significantly improves system performance by reducing computational overhead. - **Cost Service Updates: **The cost service now uses pricing aggregates for more accurate estimations. These enhancements collectively make Aleph Cloud more reliable and user-friendly, reinforcing its position as a leading solution for decentralized cloud computing. ## Unlocking new use cases with GPUs The addition of GPUs extends Aleph Cloud’s capabilities to serve a diverse range of industries and applications: - **AI and Machine Learning: **Train and deploy machine learning models faster and more efficiently. - **Rendering:** Create stunning visual effects and high-quality 3D graphics with reduced rendering times. - **Gaming:** Deliver seamless, high-performance experiences for cloud gaming platforms. - **AI Agents:** Power advanced AI agents with robust, decentralized computing resources. These use cases showcase the versatility of Aleph Cloud’s GPU offering, making it a compelling choice for developers, creators, and businesses alike. ## Looking ahead The release of GPU integration and the accompanying features represents a significant leap forward for Aleph Cloud and its community. As we continue to enhance our platform, we remain committed to empowering users with the tools they need to innovate, scale, and succeed in a decentralized world. To explore these new features and start leveraging GPUs on Aleph Cloud, **visit **[**console.twentysix.cloud**](https://console.twentysix.cloud/) today. For more updates, follow us on [Twitter](https://twitter.com/aleph_im) and join our [Discord community](https://discord.com/invite/alephcloud). Together, let’s redefine the future of cloud computing. ** Those pricing are converted in USD from the current price of ALEPH token. This data should evolve in time* ![Encrypted Memory TEE Build your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/GPUs-are-now-integrated-into-aleph-cloud/img-2.svg) **Ready to Build Securely?** Implement Confidential Virtual Machines today and lead the way in privacy-first computing. [Get Started Now](https://docs.aleph.cloud/computing/confidential/) --- # Aleph.im launches Twentysix Cloud URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/aleph-im-launches-twentysix-cloud/ Published: 2024-06-12T17:31:25.428Z Twentysix Cloud is an all-in-one, decentralized cloud marketplace, powered by aleph.im’s [Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network](https://medium.com/aleph-im/a-beginners-guide-to-decentralized-physical-infrastructure-2f5896d92556) (DePIN). This launch marks a significant step in bridging decentralized cloud solutions with the growing demand for computing resources. ![Twentysix Cloud decentralized cloud marketplace](../../assets/blog/aleph-im-launches-twentysix-cloud/img-1.svg) ***Twentysix Cloud is an all-in-one, decentralized cloud marketplace, powered by aleph.im’s ***[***Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network***](https://medium.com/aleph-im/a-beginners-guide-to-decentralized-physical-infrastructure-2f5896d92556)*** (DePIN). This launch marks a significant step in bridging decentralized cloud solutions with the growing demand for computing resources.*** Aleph.im announces the launch of its new innovative front-end. **Twentysix Cloud** is a decentralized cloud marketplace offering a full range of blockchain-based storage, compute engine, indexing, and AI solutions for businesses and applications. By leveraging the [**aleph.im**](https://aleph.im/)** **infrastructure, Twentysix Cloud ensures a secure, resilient, and transparent user experience. It sets a new standard for modern cloud infrastructures, utilizing tens of independent nodes worldwide. Twentysix Cloud Software as a Service Twentysix Cloud is a cloud platform that prioritizes edge optimization. This means users can easily host, and deploy their websites and applications. Developers can leverage this platform to create applications that are both fast and highly performant. ![Hosting and deploying applications on Twentysix Cloud](../../assets/blog/aleph-im-launches-twentysix-cloud/img-2.svg) The decentralized design of Twentysix Cloud meets the evolving needs of businesses and developers. It provides a versatile environment for a wide range of applications, empowering users through a robust architecture that seamlessly connects on-chain and off-chain data, eliminating centralized points of failure. Twentysix Cloud now operates on a **Pay-As-You-Go** (PAYG) model, offering users the flexibility to pay only for the resources they use. This approach leads to lower costs due to the distributed nature of resources. Payments can be made in ALEPH, the native token of the network, or in stablecoins. This system, which charges by the millisecond, leverages Avalanche C-chain and [**Superfluid**](https://www.superfluid.finance/) for optimal payment solutions. **“We’d like to welcome Twentsix Cloud powered by Aleph.im into the Avalanche ecosystem. The team’s Pay-As-You-Go model is an example of what can be created by harnessing the speed, power, and flexibility of Avalanche to build unique products for optimal payment solutions.”** **Nadim Chamoun, Sr. BD Associate at Ava Labs** Twentysix Cloud is enhancing its integration with EVM blockchains like [**Avalanche**](https://www.avax.network/) to facilitate global streaming payments. This enhancement enables a seamless Pay-As-You-Go payment system that operates effortlessly across node operators, who contribute to maintaining and securing the network independently. **“Twentysix Cloud offers a wide range of products for companies who wish to use an alternative solution to traditional cloud services. Until today, our users needed to hold or stake tokens to use our solutions. With the introduction of our Pay-As-You-Go model, we’re excited to onboard more businesses and developers, providing easy access to a full Web3 cloud platform. Our product will incorporate DeFi components to facilitate stablecoin transactions and include fiat gateways to enhance ease of use.”** **Jonathan Schemoul, co-founder and CEO of aleph.im** Jonathan added, “Our mission is to contribute to the open-cloud industry as a whole and drive innovation across the space, providing new ways to build, deploy, and scale more effective models for AI. By opening this technology, we are offering decentralized AI’s virtual agents and conversational AI products to all who wish to use it, in a confidential way.” In addition to its advanced capabilities, Twentysix and aleph.im are GDPR compliant. This ensures that stakers’ personal data remains secure, and they retain ownership of their uploaded documents and metadata. These are stored on Twentysix Cloud’s decentralized storage across 80+ core channel nodes, and 250+ compute resource nodes. *All technical informations regarding the Pay-As-You-Go feature are available on our *[***official GitHub***](https://github.com/aleph-im)*.* --- # ALEPH token now available on Revolut URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/aleph-listing-revolut/ Published: 2025-09-03T13:25:26.455Z ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/aleph-listing-revolut/img-1.svg) Revolut has [officially listed](https://www.revolut.com/crypto/price/aleph/) the ALEPH token, providing over **60 million users worldwide** with direct access to Aleph Cloud's decentralized infrastructure solution. This major listing on August 20, 2025, marks a significant milestone for Web3 adoption and offers unprecedented accessibility to one of the most promising decentralized cloud computing platforms. ## What is Revolut? Revolut operates as Europe's largest crypto-friendly fintech platform, serving 60 million global users across 48 countries. The platform revolutionized financial services by offering an all-in-one solution including multi-currency accounts, commission-free stock trading, cryptocurrency exchange, and peer-to-peer payments. The platform supports over 200 cryptocurrencies and offers advanced features through Revolut X for sophisticated traders, along with staking opportunities yielding up to 19% APY on select tokens. ## What this means for investors? The **Revolut listing eliminates traditional barriers **to crypto adoption by allowing existing account holders to purchase ALEPH without additional KYC requirements. Trading fees start at 0% on the platform, with instant fiat transfers and seamless conversion between ALEPH and traditional currencies. For investors, this integration represents access to a token powering the rapidly growing decentralized cloud market, projected to expand from **$1.5 billion to $10.8 billion by 2033, **a 49.3% compound annual growth rate. ALEPH's utility extends beyond speculation through Aleph Cloud's upcoming credits system, where tokens can be converted to pay for computing services, creating consistent demand. ## Market positioning and growth potential With 247 million ALEPH tokens in circulation from a maximum supply of 500 million, the token maintains scarcity while supporting network operations through [staking](https://app.aleph.cloud/account/earn/staking/) requirements ranging from 10,000 to 200,000 tokens depending on node operator roles. The **Revolut listing provides ALEPH with exposure to mainstream retail investors** while validating its legitimacy in the rapidly expanding decentralized infrastructure sector. As enterprises increasingly seek alternatives to centralized cloud providers, ALEPH token holders are positioned to benefit from growing utility and demand for decentralized computing services. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/aleph-listing-revolut/img-2.svg) **Deploy your own confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Get strated](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/) --- # Anima use case URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/anima/ Published: 2025-03-24T22:15:27.347Z [**Anima**](https://anima.io/) offers a decentralized identity and reputation system using **Proof of Personhood** (PoP). It allows users to mint Reputation NFTs, signaling their uniqueness on-chain, and participate in bot-free communities. Users can level up their [NFTs](/blog/articles/ubisoft-captain-laserhawk-dynamic-nfts/) by completing regular PoP challenges, earning rewards and exclusive access to airdrops. The platform is built around **anti-bot protection**, actively verifying **real users and preventing sybil attacks** in online ecosystems. A **Soulbound Token** (SBT) is a non-transferable NFT that represents a person’s identity, reputation, or achievements on the blockchain. Unlike regular NFTs, which can be bought, sold, or transferred, SBTs are **permanently bound to a specific wallet**, making them ideal for credentials, memberships, or proof of reputation. ![Anima Soulbound Token for on-chain identity and reputation](../../assets/blog/anima/img-1.jpg) Proof of Personhood (PoP) is a **privacy-preserving identity verification system** that ensures blockchain users are unique individuals while protecting their anonymity. Anima’s PoP uses encrypted facial scans to create a non-reconstructable "*Face Graph*", preventing bots and multi-account abuse in airdrops and governance. Unlike traditional KYC, PoP does not expose personal data but enables fair reward distribution and sybil resistance. Integrated with Anima’s Reputation NFT, it ensures that **only genuine users receive benefits**, fostering a more secure and equitable Web3 ecosystem. ![Anima IPFS storage](../../assets/blog/anima/img-2.png) **Ready to Build Securely?** Implement Confidential Virtual Machines today and lead the way in privacy-first computing. [Get Started Now](https://docs.aleph.cloud/computing/confidential/) Anima uses [**Aleph Cloud**](https://aleph.im/) as the central infrastructure for managing the metadata of their SBTs. This solution allows them to upload all token metadata to **Aleph Cloud** decentralized network while leveraging the aggregation system for dynamic updates. ![Anima managing SBT metadata on Aleph Cloud](../../assets/blog/anima/img-3.jpg) When a user progresses in their reputation level, Anima can simply update the corresponding metadata on **Aleph Cloud** without modifying the links in smart contracts, resulting in significant savings on transaction costs. Currently, the system manages over **15,000 JSON files** on our infrastructure, with more than **100,000 updates performed**. The simplicity and speed of **Aleph Cloud** make it a particularly well-suited tool for **Anima** use cases, providing an efficient and cost-effective solution for the scalable management of their reputation system. **Discover Anima:** [https://app.anima.io/](https://app.anima.io/) --- # Powering Ubisoft's Champions Tactics URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/champions-tactics-aleph-vrf/ Published: 2024-07-15T21:24:45.976Z **During the first edition of the Serverless BXL conference hosted at Ethereum’s largest community event, EthCC, Ubisoft announced Aleph Cloud as the decentralized cloud service provider for its new Web3-native game, Champions Tactics. The game will leverage Web3 infrastructure supported by **[**HOME Verse**](https://www.homeverse.games/)** and Aleph Cloud. It is the studio’s first original Web3 game, developed with NFTs front and center.** ## Ubisoft's Champions Tactics ![Ubisoft's Champions Tactics game artwork](../../assets/blog/champions-tactics-aleph-vrf/img-1.jpg) Champions TacticsTM Grimoria Chronicles is a game where strategy, creativity, and dark fantasy unite in a captivating multiplayer tactical experience Players can assemble a team of mythical Champions, engage in thrilling tactical battles against other players, and discover the legends of the dark and mystical world of Grimoria. Champions Tactics launched the Warlords, their first PFP collection of 9,999 unique digital collectibles. With over 170 unique traits, including armor, weapons, headgear, and more, each Warlord is truly one-of-a-kind. Each Warlord provides exclusive early access to the Champions drop. Their second collection, “The Champions,” is coming soon and the allowlist, called the “Dark List” will give players the possibility to mint 3 Champions for free on their upcoming mint on the 18th of July. Champions Tactics is built on HOME Verse a blockchain certified by Oasys, developed and operated by double jump.tokyo Inc, while the data and in-game assets are underpinned by Aleph Cloud. This collaboration offers a seamless [Web3 gaming](/blog/articles/cloud-computing-for-gaming/) experience for global player communities. ## Ubisoft in-game NFTs powered by Aleph Cloud *****“At Ubisoft, we used Aleph Cloud solutions since we released our Ubisoft Quartz platform to secure the storage of all our NFT metadata because it is very easy to use and especially it avoids having to maintain infrastructure to store this metadata. This is why we decided to also use it for our upcoming game Champions Tactics, in which we will store more advanced gameplay metadata and we will also use the new feature called Aleph Cloud VRF to do a fair mint of our initial set of champions,”***** ***said Jean Schmitt, Lead Developer, Strategic Innovation Lab at Ubisoft.*** Aleph Cloud decentralized [computing network](/computing/), offers a suite of services that include Oasys L1 and HOME Verse L2 indexers as well as a VRF Solution for generating verifiable random numbers, and a custom oracle for integrating external data sources. These tools ensure a fair, transparent, and scalable gaming experience. L2 indexers streamline the processing and organization of blockchain data, ensuring swift and smooth interaction within the gaming ecosystem. *“Verifiable Random Function”* VRF introduces a robust mechanism for generating verifiable random numbers within games, bolstering transparency and fairness in gameplay. This novel technology will be leveraged in the upcoming [Champions Release & Mint](https://championstactics.ubisoft.com/champions). *****"We're thrilled to partner with Ubisoft on Champions Tactics, leveraging our decentralized cloud infrastructure. This collaboration showcases Web3's potential for secure, transparent, and scalable gaming. With Aleph Cloud's solutions, we're ensuring advanced data storage and fair minting processes, supporting Ubisoft in delivering the next generation of gaming,”***** ***said Jonathan Schemoul, CEO of Aleph Cloud.*** Ubisoft has been running its own Core Channel Node, [UbiStratLab](https://app.aleph.cloud/account/earn/ccn/ac6b9537f619b98fa90246cd1efeb23027284d3385f25dda34248b0f9a46e5bf/?ccnq=ubi) on Aleph Cloud since 2021. This node validates and manages the network and provides storage resources to help decentralized applications and protocols become fully decentralized. ****About Home Verse**** "HOME Verse" is a blockchain certified by Oasys, developed and operated by double jump.tokyo Inc. It offers high transaction speeds and zero gas fees, allowing users to enjoy a variety of blockchain games without any hassle. This concept-free platform is suitable for both major and indie game developers, providing them with a user-friendly and flexible platform to create and launch their games. - Twitter：[https://twitter.com/homeverse_games](https://twitter.com/homeverse_games) - Website: [https://www.homeverse.games/](https://www.homeverse.games/) ****About Champions Tactics**** Inspired by classic strategy board games and modern turn-based RPGs, Champions TacticsTMGrimoria Chronicles is a game where strategy, creativity, and dark fantasy unite in a captivating multiplayer tactical experience. Assemble a team of mythical Champions, engage in thrilling tactical battles against other players, and discover the legends of the dark and mystical world of Grimoria. The “The Champions,” collection is coming soon! The allowlist, called the “Dark List” will give players the possibility to mint 3 Champions for free on their upcoming mint on the 18th of July. Each Champion comes with a unique look and skillset. To play and overcome your opponent, players must assemble a squad of three, and strategically employ their skills to counter the opponent's lineup and actions. Follow Champions Tactics for more news! - Website: [https://championstactics.ubisoft.com/](https://championstactics.ubisoft.com/) - X: [https://x.com/championsverse](https://x.com/championsverse) --- # How cloud gaming is impacting the gaming industry? URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/cloud-computing-for-gaming/ Published: 2025-07-15T20:07:03.420Z ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/cloud-computing-for-gaming/img-1.svg) The gaming industry is experiencing a transformative shift that's redefining how we play, access, and experience games. **Cloud gaming**, has emerged as a revolutionary force that's breaking down traditional barriers and democratizing access to high-quality gaming experiences. This exploration examines how cloud gaming is reshaping the industry landscape, from its underlying technology to the innovative decentralized solutions that are driving its future. ## Introduction to cloud gaming Cloud gaming represents a paradigm shift in how games are delivered and played. Unlike traditional gaming models that require powerful local hardware, cloud gaming streams games directly from [remote servers](/vps/) to any device with an internet connection. This technology eliminates the need for expensive gaming consoles, high-end PCs, or frequent hardware upgrades, making premium gaming experiences accessible to a broader audience. The market data reveals the explosive growth potential of this technology. According to recent industry analysis, the global cloud gaming market is projected to reach **$159.24 billion** by 2032, growing at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 50.0% from 2025 to 2032. This growth trajectory reflects the increasing demand for accessible, on-demand gaming experiences that can be enjoyed across multiple devices and platforms. ## Server architecture and processing power Cloud gaming platforms utilize advanced streaming technologies to deliver high-quality video and audio content with minimal delay. The streaming process involves several critical components: **Video encoding and compression:** Games are rendered on remote servers and compressed using advanced codecs such as AV1 and HEVC (H.265) to reduce bandwidth requirements while maintaining visual quality. Adaptive bitrate streaming technology automatically adjusts resolution and data usage based on the user's internet connection quality. **Network optimization:** Efficient traffic management and network prioritization ensure lag-free gaming experiences. Quality of Service (QoS) protocols help manage bandwidth allocation and reduce network congestion during peak usage periods. **Real-time data processing:** Cloud gaming requires sophisticated algorithms to process user inputs, game state updates, and audio-visual feedback in real-time. This processing must occur within milliseconds to maintain responsive gameplay. ## Persistent challenges **Latency and network dependence: **Despite technological advances, latency remains a critical challenge for cloud gaming. Even minimal delays can significantly impact gameplay, particularly in competitive gaming scenarios where split-second reactions are crucial. Network instability or insufficient bandwidth can result in poor gaming experiences, including lag, visual artifacts, and input delays. **Internet infrastructure requirements:** Cloud gaming success depends heavily on robust internet infrastructure. Approximately one-third of the world's population still lacks regular internet access, limiting the potential market for cloud gaming services. Additionally, data caps and variable connection speeds can negatively impact the gaming experience. **Subscription costs and economic considerations:** While cloud gaming eliminates hardware costs, ongoing subscription fees can accumulate over time. Players must evaluate the long-term economic implications of subscription-based gaming versus traditional game ownership models. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/cloud-computing-for-gaming/img-2.svg) **Deploy your own confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Get strated](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/) ## How Aleph Cloud powers cloud gaming? Aleph Cloud represents a new approach to cloud gaming infrastructure, combining the benefits of **decentralized physical infrastructure networks **(DePIN) with advanced [confidential computing](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/) and edge optimization technologies. This unique positioning enables Aleph Cloud to address many of the fundamental challenges facing traditional cloud gaming while opening new possibilities for Web3 gaming applications. ## Confidential computing solutions Aleph Cloud's implementation of confidential computing technology addresses critical security and privacy concerns in gaming applications: **Confidential virtual machines:** The platform offers confidential VMs that utilize hardware-based encryption technology, specifically **AMD SEV** (Secure Encrypted Virtualization), to ensure high levels of data confidentiality during processing. This technology creates secure environments for executing gaming applications while protecting sensitive user data and proprietary algorithms. **Trusted execution environments: **Aleph Cloud's confidential VMs operate within **Trusted Execution Environments** (TEE), ensuring that user data remains private and encrypted even during processing. This capability is essential for gaming applications that handle sensitive player information or implement advanced AI features. **Hardware memory encryption: **The platform uses hardware memory encryption to guarantee that gaming data and applications cannot be read or modified during operation, providing enterprise-grade security for gaming workloads. ## Gaming-specific infrastructure This infrastructure is specifically designed to support the unique requirements of gaming applications: **GPU marketplace:** The platform's [GPU marketplace](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/gpu-instance/new/), support high-performance tasks such as AI training, rendering, and real-time gaming applications. This marketplace will enable developers to access powerful GPU resources on-demand without the capital investment required for dedicated hardware. **Serverless functions:** Similar to AWS Lambda but built on a [distributed network](/infrastructure/), Aleph Cloud's serverless functions allow for efficient, event-driven computing without long-term resource commitments. This capability is ideal for gaming applications that require scalable backend processing. **Decentralized storage:** The platform combines dynamic, IPFS-based storage with mutable databases to support applications ranging from real-time data processing in gaming to large-scale AI model deployment. ![Encrypted Memory TEE discover confidential VM](../../assets/blog/cloud-computing-for-gaming/img-3.svg) **VPS starter - Only $1.68/Month** 1 vCore - 2GB Ram - 20 GB NVMe - ∞ Mbps [Get started](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/instance/new/) ## Competitive advantages for cloud gaming Aleph Cloud's unique positioning provides several competitive advantages specifically relevant to gaming applications: **1] Cost efficiency:** By leveraging idle computing resources through its decentralized network, Aleph Cloud can provide gaming infrastructure at significantly lower costs than traditional centralized providers. **2] Global accessibility:** The distributed nature of the network enables high-quality gaming services in regions where traditional providers find it economically unfeasible to establish data centers. **3] Privacy-first approach:** Unlike centralized providers, Aleph Cloud's architecture ensures that even the platform operators cannot access user data or gaming applications, addressing growing privacy concerns in the gaming industry. **4] Web3 integration: **The platform's native support for blockchain technologies and multi-chain interoperability makes it ideal for Web3 gaming applications that require decentralized governance, NFT integration, and cross-chain asset management. ## Partnership with Ubisoft Aleph Cloud's most notable gaming partnership is with **Ubisoft**, one of the world's largest game publishers. This collaboration has resulted in several groundbreaking implementations: **• Champions Tactics Integration:** Aleph Cloud powers Ubisoft's Web3 game "[Champions Tactics: Grimoria Chronicles](https://championstactics.ubisoft.com/)". The partnership leverages Aleph Cloud's decentralized infrastructure to handle NFT metadata storage and implement advanced features like Aleph VRF (Verifiable Random Function) for fair champion draws. **• Captain Laserhawk: **Aleph Cloud has been instrumental in bringing [dynamic NFTs](/blog/articles/ubisoft-captain-laserhawk-dynamic-nfts/) to life in Ubisoft's games, including "[Captain Laserhawk: The G.A.M.E](https://edenonline.ubisoft.com/)." and "Tom Clancy's Ghost Recon Breakpoint". These NFTs evolve based on player interactions, creating more engaging and personalized gaming experiences. **• Ubisoft Quartz Platform:** In 2021, Ubisoft has been using Aleph Cloud's technology for NFT metadata storage on its Ubisoft Quartz platform, demonstrating the reliability and scalability of decentralized cloud solutions for gaming. ### Future gaming applications Aleph Cloud's infrastructure enables several innovative gaming applications that were previously impractical: **Decentralized AI agents:** Gaming applications can implement [AI agents](https://libertai.io/) that operate in confidential computing environments while maintaining verifiability and user ownership. **Cross-chain gaming:** The platform's multi-chain support enables gaming applications that span multiple blockchain networks, allowing for complex economic models and asset interoperability. **Privacy-preserving analytics: **Gaming companies can analyze player behavior and game performance while maintaining strict privacy standards through confidential computing. ***Feature*** ***Centralized Cloud*** ***Aleph Cloud*** **Architecture** Few data centers Global DePIN **Privacy** Provider-visible data Confidential VMs **GPU Access** Fixed SKU pricing On-demand GPU marketplace **Web3 Support** Limited Native multi-chain --- # Cloud sovereignty should include architecture URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/cloud-sovereignty-should-include-architecture/ Published: 2026-06-16T14:00:00.000Z Europe's cloud sovereignty debate has accelerated since the Cloud and AI Development Act, and it is aimed at the right target. But for the workloads that actually matter, the assessment still skips a layer — the one that asks who can pull the plug on a system, who can read what is inside it, and whether anyone outside the provider can check either answer. The European Commission's [June technology package](https://ec.europa.eu/commission/presscorner/detail/en/ip_26_1187) puts cloud dependency back on the policy agenda, framed as part of a broader push for technological sovereignty. [The Guardian](https://www.theguardian.com/commentisfree/2026/jun/15/europe-us-big-tech-silicon-valley-european-commission) read CADA as a central piece of the plan for cloud providers handling public-sector data, and [Le Monde](https://www.lemonde.fr/en/opinion/article/2026/06/16/europe-must-forge-its-own-ai-sovereignty-path-against-american-control_6754537_23.html) made the same dependency point about AI infrastructure after the latest American export-control shock around advanced models. It is the right debate. It just needs a technical layer to sit alongside the legal one. ## Sovereignty is a control question, too Most sovereignty frameworks start in the same place: geography, ownership, who holds the admin keys, where the data physically sits. Those things matter — they tell a public buyer a great deal about legal exposure, procurement risk, and how dependent it is on a foreign government. What they don't capture is control. When compute, storage, coordination, billing, and day-to-day operations all run through a single operator, that operator is a pressure point. A European flag on the company doesn't make the pressure point disappear, and for a critical workload it is exactly where things break. So a serious assessment should map that control surface directly: - Who can stop the workload? - Who can inspect its data or secrets? - Who can change the conditions under which it runs? - How can an outside party verify those answers? Answering these doesn't replace the jurisdictional analysis. It grounds it in something you can actually point at. ## Architecture changes the failure model Decentralized infrastructure won't make geopolitics disappear. What it changes is where the single points of failure are, and how many of them there are. Run a workload across independent operators, open protocols, and portable infrastructure, and no single provider holds practical control over the whole system. That is fewer control points for procurement rules to wrestle with later, and weaker ones. Confidential computing attacks a different part of the problem. With trusted execution environments and remote attestation, you can design a workload so the operator runs it without ordinary access to its secrets. The question stops being "who has an admin badge" and becomes "can the execution environment itself be verified." Then there is the coordination layer. Depend on opaque control-plane software and buyers are stuck trusting the vendor's description of it. Make that layer public and the assessment can rest on code, topology, and operational evidence instead. ## What Europe should actually test The CADA debate should treat architecture as part of the assessment, especially for sensitive public-sector and AI workloads. In practice that means funding and stress-testing the systems that make control points visible: - decentralized compute and storage across independent operators - confidential execution with documented attestation flows - open-source coordination layers - public status and network dashboards with freshness timestamps - portable workloads that aren't tied to one cloud account or provider Some of this is rougher than hyperscaler infrastructure today — we know that better than most. That is an argument for testing it honestly, publishing the gaps, and funding the parts that reduce real dependency, not for leaving it out of the conversation. ## Where we fit, and where we don't Full disclosure: this is our field. Aleph Cloud has spent eight years building decentralized cloud infrastructure from France — compute, storage, hosting, indexing, and confidential execution across a distributed network. We also know what we still owe: better onboarding, better documentation, stronger proof assets, more product polish. We are not arguing that every workload should move to decentralized infrastructure tomorrow, or that architecture on its own settles every sovereignty question. The narrower claim is the one worth making. When Europe weighs cloud sovereignty, architecture belongs in the evidence — not as a footnote, but as something you measure. Because for any workload that matters, the assessment has to land somewhere concrete: who can stop it, who can see inside it, and who outside the room can check the answers. Architecture is how you get those answers in writing. --- # Confidential Virtual Machine overview URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/confidential-virtual-machine-overview/ Published: 2024-08-27T16:24:35.536Z **With the deployment of **[**aleph-vm 1.0.0 client**](https://github.com/aleph-im/aleph-vm/releases/tag/1.0.0)**, we are glad to announce the release of Confidential Virtual Machines on Aleph Cloud.** The biggest challenge to date was to deploy [Confidential Virtual Machines](https://console.twentysix.cloud/). These decentralized virtual machines leverage cutting-edge hardware-based encryption to ensure that your data and applications remain fully protected, even during processing. By deploying Confidential VM instances on Aleph Cloud, you unlock the following key advantages: - **Full Isolation**: Encryption keys are generated and managed entirely by dedicated hardware, ensuring that no external entity, including the hypervisor, can access or tamper with them - **Secure Attestation**: You can validate the identity and integrity of your VM to guarantee that critical components remain untempered and secure throughout their lifecycle. This level of security is achieved through a [Trusted Execution Environment (TEE)](/blog/articles/what-is-tee/), ensuring true data confidentiality across decentralized infrastructure. Enable Confidential VM service easily when setting up your Aleph Cloud virtual machines for enhanced privacy and security. ***Feature*** ***Virtual Machines (VMs)*** ***Confidential Virtual Machines (CVMs)*** **Data Security** Standard security, data may be exposed during processing Hardware-based memory encryption ensures data confidentiality during processing **Encryption** Typically applied to data at rest or in transit Encryption extends to data in use (while being processed in memory) **Isolation** Basic isolation through the hypervisor Full isolation with encryption keys inaccessible to the hypervisor **Trusted Execution Environment (TEE)** Not available or optional depending on the platform Utilizes a TEE to secure execution and ensure the integrity of sensitive operations **Attestation** Not generally available Provides attestation to verify the VM's identity and integrity, ensuring it hasn’t been tampered with **Use Case** General-purpose workloads, less focus on sensitive data protection High-security workloads requiring data confidentiality during execution **Threat Model** Focuses on protection from external attacks Protects against internal and external threats, including privileged users or compromised hypervisors **Performance** Standard performance Slight performance overhead due to encryption and TEE mechanisms **Availability** Widely available on most cloud platforms More specialized, requires specific hardware support for confidential computing **Deployment Complexity** Straightforward deployment, often pre-configured in cloud platforms Similar deployment process with added configuration for confidentiality features The table highlights the key distinctions between standard virtual machines and confidential virtual machines, focusing on enhanced security features that make CVMs suitable for sensitive data processing. This aids in protecting the confidentiality of your data even if a malicious VM finds a way into your VM’s memory, or a compromised hypervisor reaches into a guest VM. ![Confidential VM protecting data in encrypted memory](../../assets/blog/confidential-virtual-machine-overview/img-1.svg) *The Confidential VM labeled as beta, only means that not all node operators are able to provide such technology.* --- # What are Confidential VMs? URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/confidential-virtual-machines/ Published: 2024-06-12T17:31:32.745Z TL;DR Aleph Cloud's "Confidential Virtual Machines" positions the platform as a decentralized, privacy-first alternative to centralized clouds. The content highlights Aleph Cloud’s use of advanced hardware-based encryption (notably [AMD SEV](https://www.amd.com/fr/developer/sev.html)), Trusted Execution Environments (TEE), and secure attestation as key differentiators for confidential computing. ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/confidential-virtual-machines/img-1.svg) At Aleph Cloud, we are dedicated to pioneering the forefront of decentralized cloud solutions, emphasizing security and privacy in all our services. In today's digital landscape, where data privacy and security are paramount, **Confidential Virtual Machines** (CVMs) and [Trusted Execution Environments](/blog/articles/what-is-tee/) have emerged as critical technologies. These advancements align perfectly with our mission to decentralize trust and security. This article explores CVMs and TEEs, their roles, functionalities, and the significant impact they have on enhancing security and privacy in computational processes. ## Understanding Confidential Virtual Machines Confidential Virtual Machines (CVMs) are specialized virtual machines designed to provide robust security guarantees for [computing sensitive data](/computing/). We leverage hardware-based security features within CVMs to ensure that data remains confidential and tamper-proof, even in untrusted environments. This capability is crucial in cloud computing scenarios, where users must trust their cloud service providers to safeguard their data. CVMs ensure that data is encrypted both at rest and in transit, preventing unauthorized access. This encryption maintains the confidentiality of sensitive information as it traverses various environments. Additionally, CVMs provide robust isolation between different workloads, ensuring that sensitive data is not exposed to other tenants on the same physical hardware. This isolation is critical in multi-tenant environments, such as public clouds, where multiple users share the same infrastructure. Moreover, CVMs guarantee the integrity of both the code and data, ensuring they have not been tampered with. This integrity is vital in scenarios where the execution environment might be susceptible to attacks. CVMs also support remote attestation, allowing them to provide proof to remote parties that the execution environment is secure and that the code has not been altered. This capability is essential in building trust in distributed systems and in scenarios where computation must be verified by external entities. The applications of CVMs are diverse and impactful. In secure cloud computing, CVMs enable [enterprises](/enterprises/) to run sensitive workloads in the cloud without compromising data privacy. This allows organizations to leverage the scalability and flexibility of the cloud while maintaining strict security standards. In the realm of blockchain and smart contracts, CVMs enhance the security of smart contracts by ensuring the execution environment is secure. This is crucial in decentralized applications where trust in the execution environment is fundamental. Furthermore, CVMs are ideal for confidential data processing, making them suitable for handling sensitive information such as financial data, healthcare records, and personal information. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/confidential-virtual-machines/img-2.svg) **Deploy your own Confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Launch app](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/) ## Exploring TEEs TEEs are secure areas within a main processor that provide an isolated environment for running code and processing data. TEEs are designed to protect the integrity and confidentiality of the data and code, even if the operating system is compromised. At Aleph Cloud, we see TEEs as a fundamental building block for creating secure applications in untrusted environments. TEEs offer several critical features that underpin their security guarantees. Secure boot ensures that only trusted code is executed during the boot process, preventing malicious software from being loaded. Isolated execution provides a secure environment that is separated from the main operating system and other applications, ensuring that sensitive operations are not exposed to potential threats. Data sealing enables TEEs to encrypt data so that it can only be decrypted within the same TEE, protecting data even if it is exfiltrated. Remote attestation allows TEEs to prove to remote parties that the code and data within the TEE have not been tampered with, which is essential for establishing trust in distributed systems. The applications of TEEs are widespread and significant. In mobile security, TEEs are widely used to protect sensitive operations such as biometric authentication and secure payments, providing a secure environment for handling personal data. In the Internet of Things (IoT), TEEs provide a secure environment for processing data in IoT devices, ensuring the integrity and confidentiality of the data in environments where devices may be physically exposed to threats. TEEs also enhance the security of blockchain nodes by protecting the execution environment from attacks, ensuring the integrity of blockchain operations. ## Challenges and future directions Despite their advantages, the adoption of CVMs and TEEs is not without challenges. One significant challenge is the performance overhead introduced by the security features provided by CVMs and TEEs, which can impact the efficiency of certain applications. This overhead can be a deterrent for performance-sensitive applications where speed is critical. Additionally, implementing and managing CVMs and TEEs can be complex, requiring specialized knowledge and expertise that may not be readily available. Compatibility with existing [applications and infrastructure](/infrastructure/) is another challenge, as integrating these technologies into established systems can require significant effort and resources. Looking ahead, there are several key areas for future development in the field of CVMs and TEEs. Standardization is essential to ensure interoperability and compatibility across different platforms and technologies, facilitating wider adoption. Enhanced security features will be necessary to address emerging threats and vulnerabilities, ensuring that CVMs and TEEs remain robust in the face of evolving challenges. As awareness of the benefits of CVMs and TEEs grows, wider adoption across various industries is expected, leading to increased investment and innovation in these technologies. ### Confidential Virtual Machines on Aleph Cloud **Confidential Virtual Machines** and **Trusted Execution Environments** represent a significant advancement in the field of secure computation. By providing robust security guarantees for the execution of sensitive workloads, these technologies play a crucial role in ensuring data privacy and integrity in Aleph Cloud. As the demand for secure and private computation continues to grow, CVMs and TEEs is undoubtedly the most awaited solution on Aleph Cloud. --- # What is decentralized cloud computing? URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/decentralized-cloud-computing/ Published: 2025-06-23T14:15:59.905Z ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/decentralized-cloud-computing/img-1.svg) Decentralized cloud computing represents a **distributed model** where data storage, processing, and communication capabilities are spread across [multiple nodes](https://app.aleph.cloud/account/earn/ccn/) or devices, rather than being housed in centralized data centers owned by a single entity. Unlike traditional cloud computing models that rely on centralized data centers, decentralized cloud computing leverages a **network of peer-to-peer connections** to achieve a more resilient and scalable infrastructure. This paradigm shift redefines how data is stored, processed, and managed by removing the need for centralized control. Instead of relying on a single entity like *AWS, Google Cloud, or Microsoft Azure* to oversee data hosting and operations, decentralized cloud solutions distribute data across multiple nodes. These nodes can belong to independent users or organizations, forming a peer-to-peer (P2P) network that leverages blockchain technology, cryptographic techniques, and distributed networks. The architecture behind decentralized cloud The architecture of decentralized cloud systems emphasizes the **elimination of single points of failure**, resulting in increased fault tolerance and improved data security. When data and applications are distributed across multiple nodes, potentially spanning various geographic locations, this distribution fosters improved fault tolerance and resilience, making the system less vulnerable to localized failures. A key component of this architecture is the use of blockchain technology and distributed hash tables (DHT) to keep track of which nodes store specific files. The DHT acts like a decentralized directory, allowing nodes to find each other and retrieve content without needing a central authority. This system uses content-based addressing rather than location-based addressing, meaning files are identified by unique Content Identifiers (CIDs) that represent the content itself, not where it's stored. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/decentralized-cloud-computing/img-2.svg) **Deploy Your Own Confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Get strated](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/) ## Decentralized or traditional cloud computing Traditional cloud systems feature single organizations or entities that own and control the infrastructure, making unilateral decisions about pricing, upgrades, and other aspects. In contrast, decentralized cloud operates on a distributed ledger or blockchain, ensuring democratic decision-making and decentralized control, often giving the community a say in major decisions. Cloud providers like *Google, AWS or Azure* control user data, raising concerns over compliance with regulations like **GDPR**. Decentralized solutions ensure data sovereignty through cryptographic keys, where no single entity has full and direct control over personal information and stored files. Even in the extreme case of a node being compromised, the data cannot be fully exfiltrated or associated with specific individuals or companies. Centralized servers can be a single point of failure and are attractive targets for large-scale attacks. The distributed nature of decentralized cloud systems eliminates single points of failure and makes unauthorized access significantly harder. Data is replicated across multiple nodes managed by different operators, eliminating the risk of general service interruption caused by a problem in a single central infrastructure. ## Decentralized cloud cost advantages Decentralized cloud computing can offer cost advantages by eliminating the need for large-scale data centers and associated infrastructure costs. By utilizing existing resources and leveraging the idle capacities of participating nodes, decentralized clouds can provide computing services at reduced costs. Some decentralized providers report up to 80% savings compared to traditional cloud services like AWS. The cost-effectiveness of decentralized cloud stems from several factors: - **Lower Capital Expenses (CapEx)**: Traditional models require large upfront investments in hardware and facilities, while decentralized models significantly reduce CapEx by utilizing existing resources - **Reduced Operational Expenses (OpEx)**: Decentralized storage distributes data management tasks among multiple nodes, lowering overall maintenance and operational costs - **Pay-as-you-go flexibility**: Many decentralized platforms offer true pay-as-you-use models without hefty minimum fees ## Pioneering the Web3 Supercloud **Aleph Cloud** positions itself as the leader in decentralized cloud computing with its innovative approach to the **Web3 Supercloud**. As a DePIN (Decentralized Physical Infrastructure) platform and Supercloud, Aleph Cloud provides access to computing, storage, database, and AI services, enabling developers to build decentralized applications (DApps) without relying on centralized cloud providers. Unique features of Aleph Cloud **Confidential Virtual Machines**: Aleph Cloud is the only decentralized cloud provider to offer confidential virtual machines using AMD SEV (Secure Encrypted Virtualization) technology. This cutting-edge technology ensures that sensitive data and transactions remain encrypted even during processing, providing the highest level of security for enterprises. **Innovative Pay-As-You-Go Model**: Aleph Cloud operates on a revolutionary Pay-As-You-Go (PAYG) model, offering users the flexibility to pay only for the resources they use. The system charges by the millisecond, leveraging Avalanche C-chain and Superfluid for optimal payment solutions with payments accepted in ALEPH tokens or stablecoins. **Exclusive Partnership with Ubisoft**: Aleph Cloud is Ubisoft's exclusive partner for decentralized cloud, providing decentralized storage services for dynamic NFTs on [Champions Tactics](https://championstactics.ubisoft.com/) and [Captain Laserhawk](/blog/articles/ubisoft-captain-laserhawk-dynamic-nfts/). This collaboration enables gamers to own evolving NFTs in AAA games, combining the fun of gaming with ownership of unique digital assets. Aleph Cloud solution offerings **Virtual Private Servers (VPS)**: Aleph Cloud offers flexible cloud computing solutions with [VPS instances](/vps/) providing up to 12 vCPU cores, from 2 to 24 GB of RAM, and from 20 GB NVMe SSD storage with unlimited bandwidth. These virtual machines are designed for confidential computing, ensuring that your logic and data remain shielded even from the network, starting at just $2.21/month. **GPU Cloud Computing**: The platform features on-demand GPU resources with up to 12 vCPU, from 18 to 72 GB of RAM, and from 20 to 48 GB of vRAM. The GPU marketplace supports high-performance tasks like AI training and rendering, with pricing starting at $0.055/hour in pay-as-you-go billing. **Block Storage Solutions**: Aleph Cloud's cloud computing infrastructure includes high-availability SSD block storage volumes that scale from as low as 1 MB up to 20 TB. These storage solutions support any dependency file or SquashFS volume, with volume storage starting at $0.0033. ![Encrypted Memory TEE discover confidential VM](../../assets/blog/decentralized-cloud-computing/img-3.svg) **VPS starter - Only $1.68/Month** 1 vCore - 2GB Ram - 20 GB NVMe - ∞ Mbps [Get started](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/instance/new/) Decentralized cloud computing represents more than just a technological evolution, it's a **fundamental shift toward a more democratic, secure, and cost-effective approach to data management and processing**. While challenges remain in terms of scalability, usability, and regulatory compliance, the advantages of enhanced security, reduced costs, censorship resistance, and data sovereignty make it an increasingly attractive alternative to traditional centralized cloud services. **Aleph Cloud**, as a pioneer of the **Web3 Supercloud**, demonstrates how technological innovation can transform cloud infrastructure. With its unique confidential virtual machines, exclusive partnership with Ubisoft, and revolutionary payment model, Aleph Cloud is setting new standards for the decentralized cloud industry. As the technology matures and addresses current limitations, decentralized cloud computing is positioned to play a crucial role in the future of digital infrastructure. For organizations seeking **greater control over their data**, improved security, and cost efficiencies, decentralized cloud solutions offer a compelling path forward in an increasingly digital world. --- # 2025 leading decentralized VPS URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/decentralized-vps-hosting/ Published: 2025-06-03T19:38:15.434Z Virtual Private Servers (VPS) have become the backbone of modern web hosting, offering businesses and developers the flexibility, control, and performance they need to run demanding applications. ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/decentralized-vps-hosting/img-1.svg) Aleph Cloud’s Virtual Private Servers (VPS) deliver a new standard in hosting: **decentralized, privacy-focused, and blockchain-powered**. Our platform is designed for developers, [businesses](/enterprises/), and innovators who want more than just a server they want control, security, and transparency. With Aleph Cloud, you get all the benefits of traditional VPS hosting, plus the resilience and privacy of a decentralized network. ## Why choose Aleph Cloud VPS? **Decentralized infrastructure:** Your data and applications are hosted across a global network, reducing risk and boosting uptime. **Privacy-focused: **Data is encrypted, fragmented, and never sold or tracked. You retain full control and ownership. **Blockchain security: **All operations are transparent and tamper-proof, leveraging blockchain for trust and automation. **Scalable resources: **Effortlessly increase CPU, RAM, and storage as your needs grow, with no downtime. **Transparent pricing: **No hidden fees. Our pricing is competitive and easy to understand. Aleph Cloud vs. Traditional VPS Providers ***Feature*** ***Aleph Cloud VPS*** ***Traditional VPS Providers*** **Decentralization** Yes No **Privacy Focus** Yes Rarely **Blockchain Integration** Yes No **Scalability** Yes Yes **DDoS Protection** Yes Yes **Pricing Transparency** Yes Varies ### Key features of Aleph Cloud VPS Unlike traditional VPS providers, Aleph Cloud leverages a **decentralized network of nodes** distributed across the globe. This architecture eliminates single points of failure, making your applications and data **more resilient** to [outages and attacks](/use-cases/). Decentralization also means that your data is not tied to a single jurisdiction, reducing risks of censorship and unauthorized access. By integrating blockchain technology, we ensure that all operations provisioning, scaling, and billing are **transparent** and tamper-proof. This approach aligns with the growing trend toward decentralized web infrastructure. Privacy is a core value at Aleph Cloud. Many hosting providers claim to protect your data, but few can match the privacy guarantees of a decentralized, blockchain-powered platform. When you host with Aleph Cloud, **your information is encrypted** and fragmented across multiple nodes, making unauthorized access virtually impossible. We do not track your activity or sell your data to third parties, and you **retain full ownership** and control at all times. This makes Aleph Cloud an ideal choice for businesses and individuals who handle sensitive information or operate in regions where privacy is a concern. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/decentralized-vps-hosting/img-2.svg) **Deploy your VPS** **Simple and quick VPS, your cloud environment at the best price** [Get started](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/instance/) Migrating to Aleph Cloud from another provider is simple and well-supported. Our comprehensive migration guides walk you through every step, from transferring your data to configuring your new environment. Our support team is available to assist with any technical challenges, ensuring a smooth transition with minimal downtime. We also offer tools to automate much of the migration process, making it easy for even non-technical users to make the switch. If you’re coming from a traditional VPS provider, you’ll quickly notice the benefits of decentralization and enhanced privacy. Choosing Aleph Cloud means choosing a partner that values your privacy, security, and autonomy. Our decentralized VPS solutions are built for the future, offering unmatched resilience, transparency, and scalability. Whether you’re launching a new application, migrating an existing project, or simply exploring the benefits of decentralized hosting, Aleph Cloud provides the tools and support you need to succeed. Visit our [VPS product page](/vps/) to explore plans, or contact our team for personalized recommendations. ### Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) **1. What is a Virtual Private Server (VPS)?** A VPS is a virtualized server that provides dedicated resources within a shared environment, offering more control and flexibility than shared hosting. **2. Why choose Aleph Cloud for VPS hosting?** Aleph Cloud offers decentralized, privacy-focused VPS solutions powered by blockchain, ensuring security, transparency, and resilience. **3. How do I migrate to Aleph Cloud VPS?** Our migration guides and support team make it easy to transfer your data and configure your new environment. We also offer tools to automate much of the migration process. **4. Is Aleph Cloud VPS suitable for dApps?** Yes, our [decentralized infrastructure](/infrastructure/) is ideal for hosting decentralized applications and blockchain projects. **5. What makes Aleph Cloud VPS different from other providers?** Aleph Cloud stands out with its decentralized, blockchain-powered architecture, privacy features, and transparent pricing. --- # Devcon Bangkok URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/devcon-7/ Published: 2024-10-24T17:58:55.271Z Devcon isn’t just another conference—it’s where code meets creativity. Developers, engineers, designers, and researchers converge to hack, build, and share breakthroughs that push Ethereum to new heights. It’s where cutting-edge Ethereum tech gets showcased, picked apart, and optimized, transforming abstract concepts into actionable code. Whether you’re deep into Ethereum development or just writing your first lines of Solidity, [Devcon](https://devcon.org/en/) is built for devs at every level. For beginners, it’s an immersive bootcamp; for seasoned devs, it’s a reunion of like-minded builders, where the flow of ideas never stops and the potential to create is limitless. ### Where to meet the team? ***Date*** ***Event*** ***Content*** **11.11.2024** [BuildCon](https://lu.ma/b6bme40b) Panel (Cloud Computing) Workshop (AI agents) **11.11.2024** [ETHDurian](https://lu.ma/1yzi0m15) Lightning talk **12.11.2024** [Decentralized SEA](https://lu.ma/ilg7tt0b?tk=UJRRfX) Networking **13.11.2024** [Applied AI x Crypto Day](https://lu.ma/mvvkb8q9?tk=EI6Opx) Panel (Cloud Computing) Workshop (AI agents) **14.11.2024** [**Aleph workshop**](https://lu.ma/1lkkrepr) **Workshop: Web hosting on Twentysix** **Workshop: Set up a Confidential VM** **Workshop: Call LibertAI API** **Workshop: Aleph node operator ** We have prepared a lot of exclusive merch and goodies, special workshops about [aleph](https://aleph.im/), Twentysix Cloud and [LibertAI](https://libertai.io/) and **free** cloud credits to all developers! ![Aleph at Devcon 7 Bangkok](../../assets/blog/devcon-7/img-1.jpg) *The Confidential VM labeled as beta, only means that not all node operators are able to provide such technology.* --- # Eclipse is supported on Aleph Cloud URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/eclipse/ Published: 2025-04-16T16:52:18.381Z **Aleph Cloud **is excited to announce its integration with [**Eclipse**](https://www.eclipse.xyz/), the modular Ethereum Layer 2 built on the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM). This integration empowers developers building on Eclipse with direct access to Aleph Cloud’s decentralized messaging protocol, persistent storage, and secure offchain compute, creating a new standard for scalable, trustless Web3 applications. ## What is Eclipse? Eclipse is a high-performance Layer 2 that combines Solana’s fast and parallelized execution with Ethereum’s security and liquidity. It uses: **• SVM for execution, **enabling massive throughput and low-latency dApps. **• Ethereum for settlement, **preserving composability with the broader ecosystem. **• Celestia for data availability, **ensuring verifiable, scalable storage of transaction data. **• RISC Zero for zero-knowledge proofs, **enhancing trust in off-chain computation. Now, with **Aleph Cloud** integration, developers gain access to a powerful, decentralized cloud layer that complements Eclipse’s modular blockchain stack. Aleph Cloud’s integration brings the same capabilities available to [Sonic](/blog/articles/soniclabs/), now tailored for the **SVM** ecosystem. Here's what developers and users can unlock: **Modular architecture** - Build stateless applications on Eclipse with persistent logic and storage handled off-chain. Use Aleph Messages to publish content, app state, configs, and interactions, all cryptographically signed and tamper-proof. **Decentralized storage** - Eclipse applications can store and retrieve files, metadata, logs, or app frontends via Aleph’s distributed node network, ensuring high availability and censorship resistance. **Secure compute layer** - Eclipse dApps can call Aleph Cloud virtual machines to execute confidential logic, backend operations, or AI inference offchain, without relying on centralized infrastructure. **Crosschain interoperability** - Use Aleph’s decentralized message protocol to sync state between Eclipse, Ethereum, Sonic, and other ecosystems, enabling true multi-chain apps. ![Anima IPFS storage](../../assets/blog/eclipse/img-1.png) **Ready to Build Securely?** Implement Confidential Virtual Machines today and lead the way in privacy-first computing. [Get Started Now](https://docs.aleph.cloud/computing/confidential/) ## What developers can do? Together, [Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.im) and Eclipse unlock the building blocks for truly decentralized, scalable dApps: - **Modular L2 design** with high throughput (SVM) - **Trusted compute and messaging** (Aleph Cloud) - **App logic that lives outside the chain**, but is always verifiable - **Ideal for DeFi, gaming, infra, content apps, and crosschain platforms** By combining these technologies, developers can move beyond the limits of monolithic chains and centralized services, and toward a **Web3 Supercloud **that scales with user demand. ## Start building with Aleph Cloud on Eclipse Eclipse builders can now integrate Aleph Cloud with full access to SDKs and developer documentation: - [docs.aleph.cloud](https://docs.aleph.cloud) - [docs.eclipse.xyz](https://docs.eclipse.xyz/) --- # How to host a website using Aleph Cloud? URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/how-to-host-a-web3-website/ Published: 2024-08-07T14:47:20.551Z Deploy your website on Aleph Cloud's cutting-edge [decentralized infrastructure](/infrastructure/) for unmatched privacy, security, and uptime. This comprehensive tutorial guides you through creating and hosting any static website or dApp using Aleph Cloud's Web3-native platform. Your website files are uploaded to **IPFS (InterPlanetary File System)** and fully managed by the **Aleph network**. Aleph Cloud is fully **GDPR-compliant**, and if you decide to delete your dApp or stop holding the required tokens, your website will be automatically garbage collected by the network. **Note: ***IPFS being a public P2P network, your files or folder could still be available in the network if other nodes pinned it* ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/how-to-host-a-web3-website/img-1.svg) What do you need to start ## Prerequisites 1. Basic knowledge of web development (HTML, CSS, JavaScript) 2. Node.js and npm installed on your machine. 3. A source-code editor like VS code (optional) 4. A GitHub account. 5. Aleph tokens in your wallet ****Step 1: Setting Up Your Development Environment**** 1. **Install Node.js and npm**: If you haven't already, download and install Node.js from [**nodejs.org**](https://nodejs.org/). npm is included with Node.js. You can actually use any framework (and package manager, such as NPM, PNPM, YARN, BUN...) to create your website. 2. **Install Git**: Download and install Git from [**git-scm.com**](https://git-scm.com/). 3. **Create a New Project Directory**: *mkdir my-aleph-blog* *cd my-aleph-blog* **NOTE:** *Keep in mind that your website must only contain client-side components and the dependencies used by it. For backend support, check out the section below.* *When your project is ready, you can build and generate your static folder. For example, using NPM:* *npm install* *npm run build* **NOTE:** *The name of the output folder depends on the framework, but it's usually ****out**** or ****dist****.* ****Step 2: Creating a Blog Template**** 1. **Initialize a New Project**: ``` npm init -y ``` 2. **Install a Static Site Generator**: We'll use Next.js, a popular React-based framework: ``` npx create-next-app@latest my-blog cd my-blog ``` 3. **Create Blog Pages**: Next.js uses a pages directory to serve routes. Create a new file for your blog posts: ``` mkdir pages/poststouch pages/posts/[id].js ``` 4. **Add Sample Content**: Edit pages/posts/[id].js* to add sample blog content: ``` // pages/posts/[id].js import { useRouter } from 'next/router' const Post = () => { const router = useRouter() const { id } = router.query return (

Blog Post {id}

This is the content of blog post {id}.

) } export default Post ``` 5. **Run the Development Server**: ``` npm run dev ``` Open http://localhost:3000/posts/1 *to see your first blog post. ![web3 hosting aleph cloud](../../assets/blog/how-to-host-a-web3-website/img-2.svg) **Deploy and host your website** Deploy a secure, censorship-resistant Web3 site using IPFS and Aleph Cloud’s decentralized infrastructure. [Launch app](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/hosting/website/) ****Step 3: Deploy to Aleph Cloud**** **Access the Console** 1. 1. Navigate to [app.aleph.cloud](https://app.aleph.cloud) 2. 2. Click on "Web hosting" 3. 3. Choose your framework (Next.js, React, Vue.js, or other) **Upload Your Website** 1. 1. Upload your built website folder 2. 2. Provide a name for your website 3. 3. (Optional) Add a custom domain - Aleph Cloud will generate one automatically if you don't have your own ****Step 4: Check out**** 1. Review the amount of [$ALEPH](/aleph-token/) needed to host your website 2. Sign the message and deploy your website. Your tokens won’t leave your wallet and won’t be consumed. Please note that if you withdraw your tokens from your wallet you will lose access to your website. ****Step 5: Continuous Deployment**** **Monitor your site** Use the Aleph Cloud dashboard to: - Monitor deployment status - View logs and analytics - Manage site settings - **Update your website** Upload your updated folder to the dashboard whenever you make changes - Aleph Cloud will automatically rebuild and deploy your site. ## Handle Redirections on IPFS By default, IPFS can't handle fallback redirections. To enable this, you should add a _redirects* file to your dapp structure. For simple websites, it should be located in the root folder. For framework-based websites, it should be located in the public folder. Then, at build time, it will be moved to the root. Check out the documentation for more details. - **IPFS docs:** [Redirects and Custom 404s](https://docs.ipfs.tech/how-to/websites-on-ipfs/redirects-and-custom-404s/) - **Specifications:** [Web Redirects File](https://specs.ipfs.tech/http-gateways/web-redirects-file/) ****Default Gateway Service**** When your website is live on the Aleph network, we provide you with a gateway URL to easily access it: https://\.ipfs.aleph.sh* You can also access it similarly using alternative gateways, as your website is hosted on IPFS. Check out alternative gateways here: [Public Gateway Checker](https://ipfs.github.io/public-gateway-checker/) ****ENS Domains**** Since your website is hosted on IPFS, it is compatible with the [ENS](https://ens.domains/) standard. To make it usable with an ENS resolver such as https://\.eth.limo* or https://\.eth.link*, you need to set up the content hash field of your ENS with: ipfs://\* Aleph is currently not compatible with IPNS, which would allow you to automatically update the live version of your dapp. We are planning to support it in the near future and are working on building our own Aleph-native alternative to Limo, which is currently not a decentralized and scalable service. ****Backend Support**** To add a backend to your website and make it a real fullstack dapp, there are two current approaches you can implement: 1. Deploy your backend as a function using our serverless solution. 2. Deploy your instance, set up your environment, and expose your APIs to the internet. **NOTE:** *You should set up your backend in advance to integrate the necessary endpoint URLs into your website later.* You now have a fully functional, decentralized website hosted on Aleph Cloud's Web3 infrastructure! This setup provides superior security, uptime, and censorship resistance compared to traditional hosting while maintaining excellent performance and user experience. ## Why choose Aleph Cloud for web3 hosting? 1. **1. Enhanced Security**: Distributed storage across multiple nodes prevents single points of failure 2. **2. Censorship Resistance**: No centralized authority can take down your website 3. **3. High Availability**: Your site remains online even if individual nodes go offline 4. **4. Data Sovereignty**: You maintain full control over your data and hosting 5. **5. Framework Agnostic**: Supports any static site generator 6. **6. Easy Deployment**: Simple upload and configuration process 7. **7. Automated Management**: Handles IPFS pinning and network distribution 8. **8. Developer Tools**: Comprehensive dashboard and monitoring 9. **9. Performance**: Content delivered from nearest available nodes 10. **10. Cost Efficiency**: Token-staking model or PAYG. Continue building the decentralized web with Aleph Cloud's powerful hosting solutions. --- # Introducing the Aleph Cloud credit system URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/introducing-credit-system/ Published: 2025-10-13T13:22:46.391Z ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/introducing-credit-system/img-1.svg) **The Aleph Cloud ecosystem is gearing up for its most significant release cycle yet, with three new major updates that will transform how developers and enterprises use decentralized cloud computing. These aren't just incremental improvements, they represent a fundamental leap forward in performance, security, and usability.** ### **TL;DR** Three major software updates are now live on Aleph Cloud that make everything faster, more secure, and easier to use. What's getting upgraded: - **The developer tools** - **The virtual machine engine** - **The network backbone** **Why it matters: **Applications will run faster, handle AI workloads better, offer stronger privacy protection, and provide a more reliable experience overall. ### Three game-changing updates ****Aleph-client 1.7.0: supercharging developer experience**** This update to Aleph's Python client library is all about making developers' lives easier. The focus is on **seamless multi-blockchain integration and streamlined APIs** that reduce complexity without sacrificing power. Aleph Cloud consistently delivers updates that eliminate developer friction while expanding platform capabilities. **What this means:** Building decentralized applications becomes as straightforward as traditional cloud development, but with all the benefits of decentralization. **Aleph-vm 1.8.0: Enterprise-grade virtual machine power** This new version transforms Aleph Cloud virtual machines into a true **enterprise-grade virtualization platform**. The headline features revolve around advanced GPU management and confidential computing capabilities that rival traditional cloud providers. The GPU reservation system gets a major overhaul with intelligent compatibility detection and resource allocation. Meanwhile, confidential computing support expands significantly, particularly for [**AMD SEV/SEV-SNP**](/blog/articles/what-is-tee/) processors, making it ideal for sensitive workloads that require hardware-level security guarantees. Performance optimizations touch every aspect of the system, from **faster VM boot times to more efficient memory usage and enhanced network diagnostics.** The result is a platform ready for demanding AI/ML workloads and high-performance computing tasks. **What this means:** Organizations can now run their most demanding and sensitive workloads on Aleph Cloud with confidence, knowing they have enterprise-level performance and security. **Pyaleph 0.9.0: The network that just works** Already available as a Docker image, Pyaleph 0.9.0 represents the most significant upgrade to Aleph's core network infrastructure. This is the software that makes everything else possible, handling message processing, data storage, and the peer-to-peer communication that keeps the network running smoothly. The major breakthrough is dramatically improved message processing with better validation and faster throughput. Network optimization includes **smarter peer discovery and synchronization algorithms** that make the entire network more resilient and responsive. Database performance gets a substantial boost through optimized PostgreSQL operations and better indexing strategies. The migration to Pydantic V2 provides both better data validation and improved performance across the board. **What this means:** The entire Aleph network becomes more reliable, faster, and better equipped to handle growing demand as more applications and users join the ecosystem. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/introducing-credit-system/img-2.svg) **Deploy your own confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Get strated](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/new/) ****Why this release cycle matters?**** These coordinated updates signal Aleph Cloud's evolution into a platform that can genuinely compete with traditional centralized cloud providers while maintaining the crucial advantages of decentralization. The strategic timing is no accident. With enterprises increasingly concerned about data sovereignty, vendor lock-in, and censorship resistance, Aleph Cloud is positioning itself as a solid alternative to centralized providers. **These releases provide the performance benchmarks and enterprise features that decision-makers demand.** For developers, the improved tooling and APIs remove the traditional friction associated with decentralized platforms. For enterprises, the enhanced security and performance capabilities make Aleph Cloud a viable option for mission-critical workloads. For the broader ecosystem, these improvements lay the groundwork for the next wave of decentralized applications and services. These releases set the foundation for a bigger update coming next year. --- # How OpenClaw & Aleph Cloud powers autonomous AI agents? URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/openclaw-ai-agents/ Published: 2026-02-09T15:19:26.602Z ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/openclaw-ai-agents/img-1.svg) The AI wave has moved past chat interfaces and static models. We're now entering the era of autonomous agents systems that don’t just gather data, but *act* on it: scraping, analyzing, reacting, and orchestrating across distributed systems. And while many still treat web automation as a “*quick script*,” the next generation of agents is designed for resilience, privacy, and scale. Enter [OpenClaw](https://openclaw.ai/), the open-source framework for intelligent web agents, and Aleph Cloud, the decentralized infrastructure engineered to run them. Together, they unlock a new class of AI-powered web operations: always-on, censorship-resistant, globally distributed, and cost-optimized. ## Why decentralized cloud changes everything? Aleph Cloud isn’t just another cloud provider. It’s a decentralized compute and storage layer built on: - Content-addressable storage (IPFS-compatible DAGs) - Distributed execution nodes across the globe - Immutable ledgers for state and audit trails - This shifts the model from “*running code on someone else’s server*” to “*running agents on the network itself*.” ***Feature*** ***Centralized Cloud*** ***Aleph Cloud + OpenClaw*** Storage Centralized buckets (S3, Blob) Content-addressable (immutable, verifiable) Execution VM/container pools Edge-anchored, on-demand compute Uptime SLA-bound, regional outages Globally redundant Data Control Provider holds keys You retain cryptographic sovereignty **The result? Agents that are self-contained, tamper-resistant, and portable.** ### From chatbots to autonomous teammates **OpenClaw did something deceptively simple: it glued all the hard parts of agents together.** Instead of another web UI, OpenClaw runs on your machine *(Mac, Windows, Linux)* and lives where you already are – WhatsApp, Telegram, Discord, Slack, Signal, iMessage. It remembers your preferences, your projects, your documents. It controls a browser, reads and writes files, calls APIs, runs shell commands, and extends itself with “skills” and plugins. In other words, **it behaves less like a chatbot and more like a highly competent teammate sitting at a real computer.** **Users are already:** - Letting OpenClaw manage calendars, email, and recurring tasks - Wiring it into codebases for autonomous testing, debugging, and deployment - Giving it access to personal knowledge bases and company “source of truth” - Spawning multiple agents specialized in operations, research, content, ops, and more Now extrapolate: not one OpenClaw, but dozens or hundreds of them, each with persistent memory, connected tools, and authority to act. These are the raw ingredients for autonomous organizations, personal AI “operating systems”, and fully automated digital back offices. But this creates a new class of infrastructure requirements that traditional, centralized clouds do not handle well. ### The infrastructure problem: agents are not just another workload Running modern AI agents at scale is fundamentally different from serving a web app or an API. **Autonomous agents:** - Run continuously instead of in short-lived bursts - Need access to private, high-value data (email, finance, health, code, legal) - Trigger long-lived workflows that combine GPU, storage, and network - Often chain multiple models and tools, including local and cloud LLMs - Must be auditable, controllable, and compliant across jurisdictions **On a legacy cloud, that usually means:** - Locking all of this into a single provider’s data centers, pricing, and policies - Accepting opaque infra (you cannot easily prove how workloads were run or where data actually lives) - Struggling with data localization and regulatory constraints, especially in Europe - Paying a premium for GPU capacity that frequently sits underutilized For one hobbyist [OpenClaw instance](https://x.com/aleph_im/status/2016109777504346233), this might be tolerable. For a network of always-on agents that touch sensitive data, it is not. This is where Aleph Cloud’s decentralized architecture aligns almost perfectly with what OpenClaw-style agents want by design. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/openclaw-ai-agents/img-2.svg) **Deploy your own confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Get strated](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/) ### Why decentralized cloud is the natural home for AI agents Aleph Cloud was built as an AI Supercloud: a censorship-resistant, multi-chain, hardware-verified alternative to traditional cloud services. **For AI agents like OpenClaw, that translates into a few critical properties:** **1. Confidential compute by default** Agents will routinely see data that humans would never put into a centralized SaaS: raw inboxes, medical documents, contracts, internal chat logs. Aleph Cloud uses Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs) and hardware-based attestation so that data stays encrypted even while it is being processed inside virtual machines. **This allows builders to design OpenClaw deployments where:** - Sensitive inputs remain confidential end-to-end - Access policies and agent capabilities are enforced at the infrastructure layer - Security guarantees are verifiable, not just “trust us” marketing For teams in the EU and beyond who care about GDPR, banking, or health data, this is the only realistic path to “always-on agents that actually see everything” without compromising sovereignty. **2. Decentralized GPU power for agent swarms** **Autonomous agents are not just about language. They need:** - Code execution and evaluation - Vision and multimodal reasoning - Large-context summarization and retrieval - High-frequency event handling and monitoring All of this adds up to serious compute demand, especially when multiplied across many agents. Aleph Cloud’s decentralized GPU marketplace gives builders a way to tap into global GPU capacity at a fraction of centralized hyperscaler pricing, while still benefiting from familiar primitives like VPS, block storage, and serverless functions. That turns “hundreds of OpenClaw instances” from a science project into a viable production deployment. **3. True data localization and sovereignty** One of the key promises of Aleph Cloud is that you choose where your data lives. For AI agents, “where” is not just a compliance checkbox – it defines who can access logs, memories, intermediate outputs, and model prompts. **With Aleph Cloud, organizations can:** - Keep OpenClaw agent data strictly within specific regions - Align deployments with local regulations (EU, US, APAC, etc.) - Maintain clear audit trails and transparent, on-chain billing For enterprises in Luxembourg, across Europe, and globally, this creates a comfortable foundation to experiment with deeply integrated agents without handing the keys to a distant data center governed by another jurisdiction. **4. Censorship resistance and composability** Autonomous agents are only as powerful as the tools they can reach. **Because Aleph Cloud is composable and modular, it can sit at the intersection of Web2 and Web3, bridging:** - Traditional APIs and SaaS tools - On-chain protocols and smart contracts - Decentralized storage and identity systems That means an OpenClaw agent running on Aleph Cloud can, in principle, read encrypted data, call DeFi protocols, coordinate on-chain governance, sync with Web2 apps, and surface all of this back to humans in their everyday chat apps. And because the underlying compute is censorship-resistant, builders are not at the mercy of a single provider’s product roadmap or policy changes. ### Why OpenClaw and Aleph Cloud are such a natural fit? OpenClaw is famously “infrastructure you control”. It is open source, hackable, and hostable on-prem. That ethos lines up almost perfectly with Aleph Cloud’s mission: cloud sovereignty for every builder. Putting them together unlocks a few compelling patterns: - **Personal agents that feel local, backed by cloud-scale power** Run a primary OpenClaw instance close to your device, then offload heavy tasks to Aleph Cloud GPU nodes via skills and plugins. - **Company-wide agent fleets with strict data boundaries** Deploy OpenClaw agents per team or function (sales, ops, engineering), host them on [Aleph Cloud VMs](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/instance/new/) in specific regions, and use confidential compute to ensure that only the right data flows into the right agents. - **Agent-first products and SaaS** Startups can build entire offerings around OpenClaw-powered agents, using Aleph’s pay-as-you-go decentralized infrastructure to avoid massive upfront costs and lock-in. Agents become your “digital staff”; Aleph Cloud becomes their office. - **Hybrid local + decentralized setups** Combine on-device models and local OpenClaw instances with Aleph Cloud-based backends for heavy lifting, long-term memory, and compliance-sensitive workflows. --- # Put your GPUs to work URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/put-your-gpu-to-work/ Published: 2025-03-14T17:08:39.760Z ## What is TEE? **Aleph Cloud is inviting Compute Node operators and the broader community to contribute GPUs to support decentralized computing.** ## Why provide your GPU? - **Automatic utilization** – GPUs will be seamlessly used by [**Libertai**](https://libertai.ai)** **and [**Aleph Cloud**](https://aleph.im) to power AI and cloud computing workloads. - **Revenue opportunity** – Contributors will receive **80% of the total GPU cost**, with Aleph Cloud retaining 20%. - **Additional Incentives** – The first **50 GPUs** onboarded will receive a special bonus: **rewards for providing GPUs will be doubled on the PAYG mechanism ***(not the full CRN)*. - **Increased monthly earnings** – Addresses contributing GPUs will be **automatically flagged by our scheduler**, ensuring higher monthly rewards. - **Limited-time incentive** – This opportunity is available for the next **six months**. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/put-your-gpu-to-work/img-1.svg) **Ready to Build Securely?** Implement Confidential Virtual Machines today and lead the way in privacy-first computing. [Get Started Now](https://docs.aleph.cloud/computing/confidential/) Aleph Cloud is scaling decentralized infrastructure with high-performance computing. **Launch your Compute Resource Node today and onboard your GPU to get started**. [More informations](/blog/articles/gpus-are-now-integrated-into-aleph-cloud/) Launch your CRN:** **[https://docs.aleph.cloud/nodes/compute/](https://docs.aleph.cloud/nodes/compute/) --- # How to set up a VM with Aleph CLI URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/set-up-vm-aleph-cli/ Published: 2026-05-25T10:14:45.687Z ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/set-up-vm-aleph-cli/img-1.svg) **Aleph Cloud's new Rust-based CLI lets you deploy decentralized virtual machines in minutes—no Python dependencies, no centralized infrastructure. This tutorial walks you through installing the CLI, funding your account with cryptocurrency, and launching your first censorship-resistant Ubuntu VM with SSH access.** **What you'll learn:** - Install the Aleph CLI on Ubuntu, macOS, or Windows (5 minutes) - Create and fund a Web3 account using USDC or ALEPH tokens - Deploy a decentralized VM for ~$10/month (~14,250 credits/hour) - Connect via SSH and manage your instance lifecycle **Prerequisites: Basic terminal knowledge, 10 USDC + 0.01 ETH for gas (or equivalent in ALEPH for 20% bonus credits)** One of the tools that was missing from the Aleph Cloud toolkit was a CLI that’s fast, reliable and easy to install. Say goodbye to the slow Python CLI, we rewrote it in Rust and added lots of new features. The goal of this tutorial is to get you familiar with the basic concepts of the CLI: - How to create or import your account - How to fund your account and buy Aleph Cloud credits - How to create your first instance and SSH into it. ## Step 1: Install the CLI **Ubuntu/Debian** The CLI is provided as an apt package that you can install by downloading and executing the install script here: ``` curl -fsSL https://apt.aleph.im/install.sh | sudo bash ``` **macOS** On macOS, the CLI can be installed with Homebrew: ``` brew install aleph-im/tap/aleph-cli ``` **Windows** For Windows users, you can download the CLI from the Github release page. For the current version, use this link: [https://github.com/aleph-im/aleph-rs/releases/download/v0.10.0/aleph-cli-windows-x86_64.exe](https://github.com/aleph-im/aleph-rs/releases/download/v0.10.0/aleph-cli-windows-x86_64.exe). **Build from source** You can also install the CLI by using `cargo install aleph-cli `or cloning the Github repository and rebuilding from source: [https://github.com/aleph-im/aleph-rs](https://github.com/aleph-im/aleph-rs). ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/set-up-vm-aleph-cli/img-2.svg) **Deploy your own confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Get strated](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/) ## Step 2: Set up your account An Aleph Cloud account is a local signing key, stored in your OS keychain (libsecret on Linux, Keychain on macOS, Credential Manager on Windows). The CLI handles creating or importing keys directly from the CLI. **Create a new account** ``` $ aleph account create vm-quickstart Account 'vm-quickstart' created. Chain: eth Address: 0x9c3b1a4f7a2e0d8b6c5a4f3e2d1c0b9a8f7e6d5c ``` **Import an existing account** If you already have a private key on your filesystem, you can import it: ``` # Import from a file $ aleph account import --from-file ./path/to/your/key vm-quickstart # Or copy-paste your key $ aleph account import --private-key 0x... vm-quickstart ``` The CLI also supports Ledger devices. To import a Ledger account, use the following steps: 1. 1. Connect your Ledger device to your computer 2. 2. Unlock it 3. 3. Open the Ethereum app 4. 4. Run aleph account import --ledger 5. 5. Select the account you import in the list menu that appears. If you used the previous aleph CLI (the Python one), you can migrate your accounts in one step by using `aleph account migrate`. **Set your account as the default and check your balance** All the commands of the CLI that require authentication support an explicit `--account` flag. To skip it, you can set an account as the default: ``` aleph account use vm-quickstart ``` You can now check your balance using `aleph account show` . If you just created this account, it should show 0 credits and 0 ALEPH tokens: ``` $ aleph account show Name: vm-quickstart Chain: ETH Address: 0x597CCbeD24800Ca64AF696644d25E0333D5bd7fD Type: local Default: yes ALEPH: 0.0000 (locked: 0.0000) Credits: 0 ($0.00) ``` ## Step 3: Fund your account To buy credits with your brand new account, you first need to fund this account with either ALEPH tokens or USDC. If you already have tokens on an Ethereum account, simply transfer them to the public address of your account that is displayed in the output of `aleph account show`. Alternatively, you can buy tokens on any centralized exchange and withdraw them to your new account. Let’s use USDC for now, and send yourself at least 10 USDC. You’ll also need a minimal amount of ETH (\<0.01 ETH) to pay for gas fees when buying credits. [**You can buy credits with ALEPH instead of USDC and get 20% additional credits.**](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/credits/) ## Step 4: Buy credits You can now buy credits through the CLI. `aleph credit buy` signs and submits an ERC-20 transfer to the network's credit contract; the protocol watches that contract and mints credits to your address once the transfer is confirmed. ``` $ aleph credit buy --token usdc --amount 10 Buying credits with 10 USDC Estimated credits: ~10000000 Recipient: 0x...credit_contract... ? Submit transaction? Yes Transaction submitted: 0x3f... https://etherscan.io/tx/0x3f... ``` If you'd rather pay with ALEPH and pocket the 20% boost, swap `--token usdc` for `--token aleph`. Everything else is identical. ## Step 5: Confirm the credits arrived Your credits should be available within less than a minute. Check your balance until your credits appear: ``` $ aleph account balance Address: 0x9c3b1a4f7a2e0d8b6c5a4f3e2d1c0b9a8f7e6d5c ALEPH: 0.0000 (locked: 0.0000) Credits: 10000000 ($10.00) ``` ## Step 6: Launch an Aleph Cloud instance An instance is the name for Virtual Private Servers (VPS) or managed VMs on Aleph Cloud. To finish this tutorial, we’ll create such an instance and show how you can log into it. Let’s first check what an instance would cost: ``` $ aleph instance price --size 1vcpu-2gb Size: 1vcpu-2gb vCPUs: 1 Memory: 2048 MiB Disk: 20480 MiB Cost: 14250 credits/hour ($0.0142/hour) ``` A bit over a cent an hour, so roughly $10 a month if you leave it on 24/7. The credits we just bought should cover one month of usage, give or take. To log into your instance, you’ll need an SSH key to log in. We need to specify the key when creating the instance. If you do not have one yet, follow [this tutorial](https://docs.github.com/en/authentication/connecting-to-github-with-ssh/generating-a-new-ssh-key-and-adding-it-to-the-ssh-agent) to create one. We’ll assume that your public SSH key is located at `~/.ssh/id_ed25519.pub`. Now, let’s create the instance: ``` $ aleph instance create my-vm \ --image ubuntu24 \ --size 1vcpu-2gb \ --ssh-pubkey-file ~/.ssh/id_ed25519.pub Size '1vcpu-2gb': 1 vCPUs, 2048 MiB memory, 20480 MiB disk Message processed (INSTANCE) Item hash: 4c2f8a1e9b7d6c5a4f3e2d1c0b9a8f7e6d5c4b3a2918374651827364519283746 Sender: 0x9c3b1a4f7a2e0d8b6c5a4f3e2d1c0b9a8f7e6d5c Explorer: https://api.aleph.im/api/v0/messages/4c2f8a1e9b7d... ``` That submitted an instance message to the network. The scheduler picks unallocated VMs up and dispatches them to a Compute Resource Node (CRN) within a minute or two. If you'd rather pick the CRN yourself (a specific region, a known-good operator), pass `-i` / `--interactive` and the CLI will walk you through. ## Step 7: Connect Wait a minute, then list your instances: ``` $ aleph instance list ITEM_HASH NAME OWNER STATUS ALLOCATED 4c2f8a1e9b7d my-vm 0x9c3b1a4f7a2e0d8b6c5a4f3e2d1c0b9a8f7e6d5c dispatched crn:d704be0b ``` The Aleph Cloud node automatically allocate an IPv6 address to your instance, and this is what we will use to connect to it. Once `STATUS` reads `dispatched`, the VM is live on the CRN shown in the `ALLOCATED` column. SSH in with the 12-character hash prefix from the first column: ``` $ aleph instance ssh 4c2f8a1e9b7d Welcome to Ubuntu 24.04 LTS (GNU/Linux 6.8.0-aleph x86_64) ... ubuntu@my-vm:~$ ``` The default user is `root`; pass `--user ubuntu` for the Ubuntu presets. If you need to forward an explicit identity file or extra `ssh` flags, `--identity ~/.ssh/id_ed25519` and trailing args after `--` both work: ``` aleph instance ssh 4c2f8a1e9b7d --user ubuntu -- uptime ``` That last form is handy for scripting (no interactive shell, just runs the command and exits). And here you go, you can now use your instance for anything you’d like! **“That’s all nice and well, but I don’t want a VM right now. How do I delete it?”** **If you wish to delete your instance, you’ll first need to find the complete VM ID (the one we used before was a shortened version). Use **`aleph instance list --json`** to find it, and then run **`aleph message forget `** to delete it.** ## Conclusion **What just happened:** - - We created a brand new account on Aleph Cloud - - We funded it through an ERC-20 transfer on Ethereum - - We bought 10$ worth of Aleph Cloud credits - - We created an Ubuntu instance and logged in to it. **A few things worth knowing for next time:** - `- aleph instance stop ` stops the VM (but not the billing!); `aleph instance start` brings it back on the same CRN. `aleph instance erase` deletes the VM's data on the CRN entirely. - - Every command supports `--json` for scripting and `--help` with worked examples. - - If you want to try the whole flow with zero real money, the repo ships a local single-binary CCN called `heph` with pre-seeded balances. `cargo install heph`, then point the CLI at `http://127.0.0.1:4024` with `--ccn`. ![Encrypted Memory TEE discover confidential VM](../../assets/blog/set-up-vm-aleph-cli/img-3.svg) **Discover Secure Computing with Aleph Cloud** Dive into our docs and see how you can deploy AMD SEV-powered CVMs in minutes. [Learn more](https://docs.aleph.cloud/devhub/compute-resources/confidential-instances/01-confidential-instance-introduction.html) --- # Sonic is available on Aleph Cloud URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/soniclabs/ Published: 2025-04-11T12:00:17.581Z [Aleph Cloud](https://aleph.im/), the decentralized cloud infrastructure powering confidential compute and persistent storage for Web3, is proud to announce its integration with [**Sonic**](https://www.soniclabs.com/), the lightning-fast, EVM-compatible Layer 1 blockchain. This new integration introduces a seamless experience for developers to build high-throughput, data-driven dApps with decentralized storage, messaging, and compute, all while enjoying the unmatched performance of Sonic’s settlement layer. ## A new era for Web3 applications Sonic brings 400,000+ TPS throughput with sub-second finality, making it ideal for real-time, high-volume applications. By integrating Aleph Cloud’s decentralized message protocol and compute layer, Sonic developers now gain access to a fully modular Web3 stack that includes: - **Decentralized Messaging:** Sonic apps can publish structured messages via [Aleph’s protocol](https://docs.aleph.cloud/protocol/messages/#message-info-fields), enabling off-chain state, configurations, content, and user interactions, cryptographically signed and verifiable. - **Persistent Decentralized Storage:** Messages, files, app frontends, and user data can be stored trustlessly and accessed globally via Aleph Cloud nodes. - **Secure Off-chain Compute:** Launch confidential virtual machines for backend logic, AI inference, or data processing all callable from Sonic smart contracts. - **Cross-chain Data Interoperability:** Leverage Aleph Cloud to bridge and sync application logic between Sonic and other ecosystems. ![Anima IPFS storage](../../assets/blog/soniclabs/img-1.png) **Ready to Build Securely?** Implement Confidential Virtual Machines today and lead the way in privacy-first computing. [Get Started Now](https://docs.aleph.cloud/computing/confidential/) ## What developers can do? Thanks to **Aleph Cloud, Sonic** developers can now: - **Build fast DeFi, gaming, and social apps** with off-chain components. - Deploy apps with **persistent state across frontends** and contracts. - Use Aleph’s virtual machines to e**xtend Sonic dApps with private logic and trusted compute**. - **Store and serve dynamic frontend UI**s fully decentralized. All of this happens without compromising decentralization or introducing centralized APIs. The **Aleph Cloud Sonic** integration is now live, with full documentation and SDKs available to begin building. Whether you're building high-speed DeFi platforms, decentralized AI, or modular Web3 apps, the tools are now in your hands. ## Start building with Aleph Cloud on Sonic - [docs.aleph.cloud](https://docs.aleph.cloud) - [docs.soniclabs.com](https://docs.soniclabs.com/) --- # Credit payment available URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/sunsetting-payg-holder-tier/ Published: 2026-03-11T09:55:29.596Z ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/sunsetting-payg-holder-tier/img-1.svg) **As of March 11, 2026, Pay As You Go (PAYG) and the Holder Tier are officially deprecated. Credits are now the single payment method across all Aleph Cloud services.** ## Why we changed the payment system? PAYG relied on on-chain token streams. Holder Tier required maintaining a minimum $ALEPH balance. Both systems worked, but they added unnecessary complexity, particularly for developers and enterprises unfamiliar with token mechanics. **Credits replace both** with a straightforward model: top up your balance, consume resources, get charged accordingly. No active streams to manage, no minimum holdings to maintain. ### How credits work? You can t**op up your credit balance using USDC, fiat currency, or $ALEPH tokens *(at a discounted price)***. Credits apply across the full Aleph Cloud stack including VMs, GPU instances, storage and serverless functions. When your balance runs out, resources stop. When you top up, they resume. This makes **billing predictable** and removes the on-chain overhead that came with legacy payment flows. ### What happens to your existing resources? Nothing is forcibly shut down. The transition is fully in your hands. If you were on PAYG: **Your VMs keep running until you delete them or your payment stream is cancelled.** Any remaining $ALEPH on your account can be converted to credits. If you were on Holder Tier: **Your VMs and stored files remain active until you delete them or your $ALEPH balance drops below the minimum threshold required to fund them.** Take the time you need. Convert when you are ready. **Get Started** Log into the Aleph Cloud console to [top up your credits](https://credits.app.aleph.im/) and review your current resources. Full technical details are available on the [Aleph Cloud GitHub](https://github.com/aleph-im). ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/sunsetting-payg-holder-tier/img-2.svg) **Deploy your own confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Get strated](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/) --- # Aleph Cloud's new revenue-share model URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/tokenomics-revenue-share/ Published: 2026-05-04T20:40:07.547Z ## What is TEE? ***Aleph Cloud is activating a new tokenomics framework for Aleph v2 that introduces a dual-stream rewards system: a temporary minimum-reward floor for the transition, and a long-term revenue share funded by what customers actually consume on the network.*** ## TL;DR - **Dual-stream rewards** for Aleph Cloud node operators: a transitional minimum-reward floor plus a usage-based revenue share. **• Reward floor** starts at **900,000 ALEPH per 30-day period** and declines linearly over **six months**. **• 95% of credit payments** flow into a distribution pool for operators and stakers; **5%** funds protocol development. **• Stakers earn 20% of protocol revenue**, with a baseline yield of approximately **4.6% APR** in $ALEPH. **• Customer-facing price**: **$0.011 per Compute Unit per hour**, calibrated for **350 CRNs at 70% utilization**. **• Quality gate**: only CRNs scoring above **80%** on Aleph Cloud's performance system receive workload allocation, and public **IPv6 is mandatory**. ![Encrypted Memory TEE discover confidential VM](../../assets/blog/tokenomics-revenue-share/img-1.svg) **Discover Secure Computing with aleph cloud** Dive into our docs and see how you can deploy AMD SEV-powered CVMs in minutes. [Learn more](https://docs.aleph.cloud/devhub/compute-resources/confidential-instances/04-confidential-instance-deploy.html) ## What is the new Aleph Cloud tokenomics model? The new Aleph [tokenomics framework](https://tokenomics.aleph.cloud), activated for Aleph v2, replaces a primarily market-sensitive incentive structure with two complementary reward streams designed to make decentralized cloud rewards less dependent on short-term token-price cycles. The first stream is a transitional minimum-reward floor for Compute Resource Node (CRN) operators and Core Channel Node (CCN) runners. The second is a usage-based revenue share funded by customer credit payments. Together, the two streams align long-term operator pay with the workloads Aleph Cloud actually serves. ## The structural problem in DePIN tokenomics Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Networks (DePIN) grew around a powerful promise: anyone can contribute infrastructure, earn the protocol's native token, and help build a more open internet. The economics, however, become fragile when infrastructure providers pay for servers, energy, bandwidth, and hardware in fiat currencies while receiving rewards in volatile native tokens. Academic research on DePIN tokenomics identifies this mismatch as a core provider-economics risk. Token-price declines undermine ROI, discourage infrastructure provision, and create feedback loops where provider exits reduce network quality and demand. That risk is structural, not behavioral. A token-priced reward stream paid against fiat-priced operating costs is sensitive to the same crypto cycles that decentralized infrastructure networks are meant to outlast. Until a greater share of operator compensation is linked to usage and real customer demand, DePIN networks remain exposed to the volatility of their own incentive assets. ## Aleph Cloud's dual-stream solution Aleph v2's tokenomics addresses that loop in two ways. **[Stream 1] A temporary minimum-reward floor** The reward floor starts at **900,000 ALEPH per 30-day period** and declines linearly over **six months**. It gives operators a known transition path while usage-funded revenue ramps up. **[Stream 2] A long-term, usage-based revenue share** Customers pay credits to run workloads. **95% of those credit payments** flow into a distribution pool for operators and stakers. The remaining **5%** is allocated to protocol development. **Stakers receive 20% of protocol revenue**. CRN and CCN rewards are increasingly tied to the resources consumed by live workloads, rather than capacity that is merely advertised. The system is rate-limited by a hard monthly emission ceiling. Rewards can expand with usage, but they cannot inflate without limit. If the cap is reached, rewards are distributed proportionally across eligible nodes. As organic revenue grows, a larger share of operator income is designed to come from real workloads rather than emissions, reducing dependency on token-priced subsidies over time. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/tokenomics-revenue-share/img-2.svg) **Deploy Your Own Confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Explore the Docs](https://docs.aleph.cloud/devhub/compute-resources/confidential-instances/04-confidential-instance-deploy.html) ## What the new tokenomics produce for operators? At the network's design target of **350 CRNs operating at 70% utilization**, the model uses a customer-facing price of **$0.011 per Compute Unit per hour**. The proposal describes a baseline staker yield of approximately **4.6% APR in $ALEPH**, with yield designed to grow as organic usage increases. **The new model also introduces harder quality gates:** **• Performance threshold**: workload allocation is restricted to CRNs scoring above **80%** on Aleph Cloud's performance scoring system. **• Network requirement**: public **IPv6 is mandatory** for nodes hosting instances. **• Specialized capacity**: operators of **GPU and confidential virtual machine** capacity are eligible for higher reward levels, reflecting higher capital costs and stronger demand. The result is a node economy designed to pay for capacity that is used, not capacity that is only advertised. ## The demand engine that funds the redesign The redesign depends on a corresponding demand-side overhaul. Aleph Cloud's tokenomics proposal describes a credits-based payment system where users can pay with **USDC, ETH, or $ALEPH** via credits. Aleph Cloud's 2025 review described the credit system as part of a broader shift away from incentive-pool-funded node rewards toward a self-supporting economy where nodes are paid by revenue generated from actual usage. For developers and enterprises, the practical effect is meaningful. Workloads can be paid through a predictable credit model rather than requiring teams to acquire or hold $ALEPH before deploying. $ALEPH remains a first-class payment option, but it is no longer the only path into the platform. ## Why Aleph tokenomics matters for the broader DePIN sector? The thesis embedded in Aleph Cloud's redesign is portable. DePIN networks, whether focused on compute, storage, bandwidth, or other infrastructure categories, face the same fundamental tension. Supply must be bootstrapped before demand is mature, but long-term economics must eventually be funded by usage rather than emissions. Academic research identifies non-speculative demand, stable user pricing, provider ROI, and governance-calibrated issuance as central design challenges for DePIN tokenomics. That shift is already part of the wider crypto conversation. Public discussion around DePIN increasingly distinguishes infrastructure rewards driven by actual usage of bandwidth, compute, and storage from incentive models based primarily on token emissions. Aleph Cloud is putting that transition into production. By combining a temporary transition mechanism, usage-funded rewards, transparent quality gates, and credit-based payments, Aleph v2 aims to create a node economy where infrastructure pay reflects work performed, not market sentiment alone. ![Encrypted Memory TEE Build your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/tokenomics-revenue-share/img-1.svg) **Ready to Build Securely?** Implement Confidential Virtual Machines today and lead the way in privacy-first computing. [Get Started Now](https://docs.aleph.cloud/devhub/compute-resources/confidential-instances/04-confidential-instance-deploy.html) --- # Twentysix Cloud integrates with Base URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/twentysix-cloud-integrates-with-base/ Published: 2024-09-11T13:25:34.388Z Blockchain technology has always promised scalability and decentralization. However, achieving these two in tandem, while maintaining security, has remained a substantial challenge. [Base](https://www.base.org/), a Layer 2 blockchain developed by Coinbase, offers a solution to Ethereum’s bottlenecks—high gas fees and limited throughput—while preserving its security properties. But solving scalability isn't enough; decentralized applications need more. This is where [aleph.im](https://aleph.im/) and Twentysix Cloud come into play. By integrating Twentysix Cloud’s decentralized storage and off-chain computing solutions with Base, we extend the conversation beyond mere scalability. This integration pushes the frontier toward decentralized infrastructure with enhanced confidentiality, cross-chain flexibility, and a new level of efficiency for developers building the next generation of decentralized applications. ## What Base brings: A scalable foundation Base, powered by [Optimism’s OP Stack](https://docs.optimism.io/stack/getting-started), addresses a critical pain point in Ethereum’s ecosystem: the prohibitive cost and speed of transactions. But Base doesn’t just speed things up and make them cheaper. It offers a developmental environment that is fundamentally aligned with the values of decentralization while providing real-world usability for developers. The blockchain is backed by Coinbase, which adds a layer of institutional credibility, yet Base remains rooted in Ethereum's core principles of security and decentralization. ## Aleph.im’s role: beyond simple scaling The integration of aleph.im’s technology with Base doesn’t just solve one problem; it offers multiple pathways for developers to build robust, decentralized applications. Here’s how: **1. Off-chain computation: ** While Base improves transaction speeds and reduces costs, aleph.im takes this a step further by offloading heavy computation. Ethereum, at its core, wasn't designed to handle large-scale computations efficiently. By shifting resource-intensive tasks off-chain to aleph.im’s decentralized network, developers can significantly enhance the performance of their dApps while maintaining security and integrity. **2. Confidential virtual machines:** Privacy is often overlooked in blockchain discussions, yet it's critical. Twentysix Cloud’s [confidential virtual machines](/blog/articles/confidential-virtual-machine-overview/) provide a way to process sensitive data without sacrificing the transparency and trustlessness of blockchain. This is particularly relevant in industries like finance and healthcare, where sensitive user data requires both privacy and decentralized processing. **3. Data sovereignty: decentralized storage as a pillar: ** Base provides an efficient layer for transactions, but data storage remains a crucial component of any dApp. Centralized data storage runs counter to the ethos of decentralization. Aleph.im addresses this by offering a decentralized, redundant network for data storage, ensuring that applications built on Base have access to censorship-resistant, highly available data without single points of failure. **4. Interoperability: cross-chain connectivity: ** The future of blockchain isn't isolated ecosystems but interoperable networks. Aleph.im’s cross-chain capabilities ensure that dApps on Base aren’t siloed. Developers can create applications that not only operate on Base but interact with other chains, extending their reach and utility. ## The developer’s new toolkit Aleph.im’s integration with Base equips developers with a powerful suite of tools. Whether you're optimizing for scalability, data security, or cross-chain operability, this integration offers flexible solutions: - **Off-Chain Computation**: Efficiently handle computational tasks off-chain, reducing costs and improving dApp performance. - **Confidential VMs**: Leverage secure, private computation for sensitive data while maintaining decentralized integrity. - **Decentralized Storage**: Store data in a truly decentralized network, ensuring security and availability. - **Interoperability Tools**: Seamlessly interact with multiple blockchains, expanding your dApp’s capabilities beyond Base. ## More information: ALEPH contract: [0xc0Fbc4967259786C743361a5885ef49380473dCF](https://basescan.org/token/0xc0Fbc4967259786C743361a5885ef49380473dCF) Supported chains: [docs.aleph.cloud](https://docs.aleph.cloud/protocol/chains/) --- # Twentysix Cloud supports holder-tier on new chains URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/twentysix-cloud-integrates-with-solana/ Published: 2024-10-21T15:06:20.791Z Twentysix Cloud now offers **holder-tier payments** on [Solana](https://solana.com/), but also on [Avalanche](https://www.avax.network/) and [Base](https://www.base.org/ecosystem), allowing users to pay directly from their Sol wallet without consuming tokens. This reduces costs by eliminating the need for staking or smart contract signatures. Users only need to hold **ALEPH**, the native token of aleph.im, in their wallet to access and build on our cloud solutions. The main benefit is that simply holding ALEPH lets you use any of our services. After building on Solana for a long time, it felt natural to extend this functionality from Ethereum to new blockchains. ## The developer’s new toolkit Aleph.im’s integration with Solana, Base and Avalanche provides developers with a robust set of tools. Whether you’re focusing on scalability, data protection, or multi-chain interoperability, this integration delivers adaptable solutions: - **Off-Chain Processing**: Execute computational tasks off-chain to minimize costs and enhance dApp efficiency. - **Confidential Virtual Machines**: Utilize secure, private computing for sensitive information while upholding decentralized integrity. - **Distributed Storage**: Safeguard your data within a fully decentralized network, ensuring both security and accessibility. - **Cross-Chain Tools**: Effortlessly engage with multiple blockchains, extending your dApp’s functionality beyond Solana. - **Indexing**: Quickly and efficiently index Solana’s on-chain data to support faster retrieval and enhanced dApp performance. Twentysix Cloud is enhancing its integration with SVM and EVM chains to provide a wider range of cloud solutions to all dApp builders and users. This enhancement enables a seamless payment system that operates effortlessly on all aleph.im network. You can expect more developments on Solana in the next months. ## More information: ALEPH contract on Solana: [3UCMiSnkcnkPE1pgQ5ggPCBv6dXgVUy16TmMUe1WpG9x](https://solscan.io/token/3UCMiSnkcnkPE1pgQ5ggPCBv6dXgVUy16TmMUe1WpG9x) Supported chains: [docs.aleph.cloud](https://docs.aleph.cloud/protocol/chains/) **Solana bridging** Currently you have two options to bridge your tokens from Ethereum to Solana, with different levels of difficulty: **1. **You can transfer your ALEPH from Ethereum to Solana using **Portal by Wormhole**. Ensure your tokens are in your Ethereum wallet to receive them in your Solana wallet. To begin, visit [https://portalbridge.com/advanced-tools/](https://portalbridge.com/advanced-tools/) and connect both your Ethereum and Solana wallets. If you're unsure before bridging, Portal offers a function to verify the token address for accuracy. Once you’ve selected the amount of tokens to bridge, follow the instructions provided by Portal Bridge. You’ll receive your tokens shortly in your Solana wallet, ready to use with Twentysix Cloud solutions. **2. **The second option is through **Swissborg**, a Swiss-based app that recently listed the ALEPH token. You can purchase ALEPH directly (KYC required) and withdraw it to your preferred Solana wallet. --- # Ubisoft Captain Laserhawk: Redefining dynamic NFTs for onchain gaming URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/ubisoft-captain-laserhawk-dynamic-nfts/ Published: 2024-12-12T10:24:50.985Z **In the never-ending story of blockchain, aleph.im, in collaboration with Ubisoft, is pushing the boundaries of what NFTs can do. This partnership introduces a new era for NFTs, moving from static, one-time minted assets to dynamic, evolving digital items with decentralized metadata management.** ## The Evolution of NFTs with aleph.im and twentysix At the core of this vision is aleph.im’s decentralized infrastructure, renowned for its scalability, security, and flexibility, providing the backbone for [Ubisoft Captain Laserhawk](https://edenonline.ubisoft.com/) new ambitious game. ![Ubisoft Captain Laserhawk dynamic NFT card (Citizen Zero)](../../assets/blog/ubisoft-captain-laserhawk-dynamic-nfts/img-1.jpg) **Discover Captain Laserhawk** The G.A.M.E is a competitive online top-down multiplayer shooter game, developed by Ubisoft. [Learn more](https://edenonline.ubisoft.com/game) ## Dynamic Metadata on aleph.im Traditional NFTs often depend on static metadata stored on [IPFS](https://ipfs.tech/) or centralized servers, which limits flexibility and transparency. Captain Laserhawk’s integration with [aleph.im](https://aleph.im/) tackles these issues by facilitating dynamic metadata generation through a decentralized system: **Key Features of the virtual machine:** **• Default NFT Metadata:** Each NFT starts with a predefined metadata structure. **• Dynamic Updates:** Metadata can be altered post-minting for individual tokens or the entire collection, enabling features like real-time score updates or evolving digital art. **• Integration with external data:** Certain metadata fields can connect to external servers to reflect real-world changes or interactions, like updating an "Eden score" based on user activity or external data feeds. ![Captain Laserhawk: The G.A.M.E multiplayer shooter gameplay](../../assets/blog/ubisoft-captain-laserhawk-dynamic-nfts/img-2.jpg) ## The Future of NFT metadata management This service, operating on aleph's serverless infrastructure, is a FastAPI application that dynamically generates and updates [NFT metadata](https://medium.com/aleph-im/how-dynamic-nfts-are-reshaping-the-gaming-industry-58e673027969). It adheres to standards like ERC-7572 for contract-level metadata but goes beyond by allowing dynamic updates and integrating external data sources. This not only enhances the flexibility of NFTs but also their interaction potential with real-world data or user actions. **Implementation Highlights:** **• API Endpoints:** Allow fetching both contract and individual token metadata, as well as listing overrides or updates applied to tokens. **• Security: **Only updates signed by the contract owner are valid, ensuring control over metadata changes. **• Decentralization: **By leveraging aleph.im's infrastructure, the metadata management remains decentralized, enhancing transparency and resilience. ## Conclusion Ubisoft’ collaboration with aleph.im is setting a new standard for NFTs. By making metadata dynamic, integrating with emerging blockchain services like ENS, and solving technical challenges with innovative solutions, they are not only enhancing the functionality of NFTs but also their potential applications in gaming, art, and beyond. This project exemplifies how blockchain technology can continue to evolve, offering new possibilities for digital ownership and interaction. **Ready to build dynamic NFTs?** Power evolving, on-chain NFTs with decentralized metadata management on Aleph Cloud. [Get Started Now](https://docs.aleph.cloud/) --- # IPv4 Connectivity & Custom Domains URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/unlocking-ipv4-connectivity/ Published: 2025-07-11T19:39:42.687Z ![Private VM](../../assets/blog/unlocking-ipv4-connectivity/img-1.svg) Aleph Cloud is built for the future of networking, assigning every instance a native IPv6 address by default. This unlocks a massive address space and enables advanced networking features. However, since much of the internet still operates on **IPv4**, direct access from **IPv4-only** clients to IPv6-only instances can be a challenge. Aleph Cloud bridges this gap with automated **IPv4-to-Instanc**e gateways and a robust custom domains system, making decentralized applications accessible to everyone. ## Bridging IPv4 and IPv6: The automated gateway Aleph Cloud’s automated IPv4-to-Instance gateway allows you to expose specific TCP/UDP ports on your private IPv6 instance to the public IPv4 internet. **How it works** ** • Configuration via Wallet** As an instance owner, you use your Aleph wallet to publish an Aggregate, a decentralized configuration message. This message defines which ports on your instance should be exposed. ** • Compute Resource Node (CRN) fetches the rule** The [CRN hosting](https://app.aleph.cloud/account/earn/crn/) your instance retrieves the latest port-forwarding rules from the Aggregate, matching them to its local instances. ** • Dynamic Firewall Programming** The CRN dynamically configures its firewall (`nftables`) to: - Allocate a random, high-numbered TCP port (≥ 24000) on its public IPv4 address, creating a public entry point. - Create a DNAT (Destination Network Address Translation) rule to intercept incoming IPv4 packets on this port. ** • Traffic Redirection** When a user connects via IPv4, the CRN’s DNAT rule rewrites the packet’s destination, forwarding it to the specified port on your IPv6 instance. **Result:** Users on the legacy IPv4 internet can seamlessly access services running on your IPv6-only instance. The protocol translation is automatic and invisible, providing secure, controlled access to your decentralized applications ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/unlocking-ipv4-connectivity/img-2.svg) **Deploy Your Own Confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Get strated](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/confidential/) ## Custom domains: human-friendly access to dApps **The challenge** By default, Aleph Cloud instances are accessed via IP addresses or internal identifiers, not ideal for user experience or branding. **The Solution: DNS and proxy-powered routing** Aleph Cloud’s custom domains feature lets you map memorable domain names (i.e `myapp.mydomain.com`) to your instances, bridging both IPv4 and IPv6 networks. **Technical workflow** **DNS Setup** Configure your domain’s DNS records at your registrar to point your chosen subdomain to the public IPv4 address of Aleph’s Custom Domains Proxy service. **Decentralized mapping via wallet** Use your Aleph wallet to create a mapping in the decentralized Aggregate store, linking your domain to your instance’s unique ID (`item_hash`). **CRN service discovery** The CRN hosting your instance: - Fetches the latest domain-to-instance mappings via the Aleph SDK. - Checks which instances are currently running locally. **Dynamic proxy configuration** The CRN updates its internal HAProxy reverse proxy in real time, mapping incoming domain requests to the correct instance without downtime. **End-user experience** 1. A user accesses myapp.mydomain.com; DNS resolves to the CRN’s public IPv4 address. 2. The request hits HAProxy, which inspects the domain (using SNI for HTTPS). 3. HAProxy routes the connection to the correct IPv6 instance and port. **Result:** End-users enjoy a frictionless experience, accessing your app via a simple domain name, completely unaware of the underlying IPv6 [infrastructure](/infrastructure/) or the sophisticated routing behind the scenes. HAProxy acts as the intelligent traffic director, using decentralized Aggregates as its routing map ## Why this matters for developers and businesses 1. **1. Universal Accessibility:** Your decentralized apps are reachable from anywhere—IPv4 or IPv6. 2. **2. Professional Branding:** Custom domains make your services memorable and trustworthy. 3. **3. Decentralized and Secure:** All configurations are managed on-chain via Aggregates, ensuring trustless, tamper-resistant mappings. 4. **4. Zero Downtime Routing:** HAProxy updates routes dynamically, so your services remain available as you scale. **Ready to make your decentralized app accessible to the world?** Leverage Aleph Cloud’s automated gateways and custom domains to deliver seamless, professional, and universally accessible applications, no matter where your users are connecting from. **More informations:** [https://github.com/aleph-im/aleph-vm/releases/tag/1.6.0](https://github.com/aleph-im/aleph-vm/releases/tag/1.6.0) [https://github.com/aleph-im/pyaleph/releases/tag/0.8.0](https://github.com/aleph-im/pyaleph/releases/tag/0.8.0) ![Encrypted Memory TEE discover confidential VM](../../assets/blog/unlocking-ipv4-connectivity/img-3.svg) **VPS starter - Only $1.68/Month** 1 vCore - 2GB Ram - 20 GB NVMe - ∞ Mbps [Get started](https://app.aleph.cloud/console/computing/instance/new/) --- # What is Trusted Execution Environment (TEE)? Introduction guide URL: https://aleph.cloud/blog/articles/what-is-tee/ Published: 2024-12-03T12:44:14.802Z ## What is TEE? **Trusted Execution Environments (TEEs) have emerged as a critical technology for safeguarding sensitive data and operations. TEEs are secure areas within a computing device's processor where code can be executed in complete isolation from the rest of the system, providing a fortress of confidentiality, integrity, and attestation.** ## How Trusted Execution Environment works? TEEs leverage advanced hardware features to create this secure enclave. For instance, technologies like ARM TrustZone and Intel SGX are pivotal in this space. ARM TrustZone divides the processor into "*secure*" and "*normal*" worlds, each running in isolation. Intel SGX, on the other hand, enables the creation of secure enclaves, where code and data are encrypted and can be processed securely. The process includes: **• Secure boot mechanisms to verify the integrity of the TEE software at startup.** - **Encryption of data while it resides in memory, **ensuring that even if the physical memory is accessed, the data remains protected. - **Execution of code within this encrypted environment, **where neither the host OS nor other applications can interfere or observe. ![Encrypted Memory TEE discover confidential VM](../../assets/blog/what-is-tee/img-1.svg) **Discover Secure Computing with aleph cloud** Dive into our docs and see how you can deploy AMD SEV-powered CVMs in minutes. [Learn more](https://docs.aleph.cloud/devhub/compute-resources/confidential-instances/04-confidential-instance-deploy.html) ## Perks of TEE - **Enhanced Security**: TEEs provide robust protection against sophisticated attacks, ensuring that data and processes within are tamper-proof. - **Confidential Computing**: They enable computations to be performed on data without revealing the data to the computing platform itself. - **Regulatory Compliance**: TEEs help businesses comply with stringent data protection laws by offering a secure processing environment. ## Drawbacks of TEE Despite their advantages, TEEs come with their set of challenges: - **Implementation Complexity**: Creating and maintaining a TEE requires deep technical expertise and can be resource-intensive. - **Performance Overhead**: The security measures can introduce a performance lag, though advancements are continually being made to minimize this. - **Hardware Limitations**: TEEs are dependent on specific hardware features, which might not be available on all platforms. ## TEE and Aleph Cloud's Confidential Virtual Machines Aleph Cloud, a decentralized cloud infrastructure provider, integrates TEE principles into its services through the use of AMD SEV (Secure Encrypted Virtualization). This technology allows Aleph Cloud to offer [Confidential Virtual Machines](/vps/) (CVMs) where: - **Encryption at the Core**: Each virtual machine's memory is encrypted with a unique key, ensuring data privacy even from the cloud provider. - **Secure Isolation**: The VM operates in a context where it's shielded not only from other VMs but also from the hypervisor, enhancing the trust in decentralized networks. - **Decentralized Security**: By deploying TEEs in a decentralized manner, Aleph Cloud provides a platform where the security of computation is distributed, reducing the risks associated with traditional centralized cloud services. Aleph Cloud's implementation of TEE technology with AMD SEV is a testament to how TEE concepts can be applied to create secure, [decentralized computing environments](/computing/). This approach not only protects data while in use but also aligns with the growing trend towards privacy-preserving computations in cloud services, offering users a way to compute on private data without exposing it to potential threats. ![Encrypted Memory TEE deploy your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/what-is-tee/img-2.svg) **Deploy Your Own Confidential VM** Follow our guide to set up secure, AMD SEV-powered Confidential Virtual Machines and protect your data. [Explore the Docs](https://docs.aleph.cloud/devhub/compute-resources/confidential-instances/04-confidential-instance-deploy.html) ## What Are Zero-Knowledge Proofs? Zero-Knowledge Proofs are cryptographic protocols that allow one party (the prover) to prove to another party (the verifier) that they know something or that some statement is true, without conveying any information apart from the fact that the statement is true. This concept is particularly useful when privacy is paramount: - **Proving Knowledge**: For example, proving that you know a password without revealing the password itself. - **Verifying Computations**: Demonstrating that a computation was performed correctly without showing the inputs or outputs. ## TEE vs. Zero-Knowledge Proofs While TEEs secure the execution environment, [Zero-Knowledge Proofs](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Zero-knowledge_proof) (ZKPs) offer a different kind of security. ZKPs allow one party to prove to another that they know a value or that a statement is true without conveying any information apart from the fact that the statement is indeed true. - **Approach to Privacy**: TEEs work by creating a secure enclave within the hardware where computations occur in isolation from the rest of the system. This ensures that sensitive data remains confidential while being processed. ZKPs, on the other hand, facilitate proving the truth of a statement or the correctness of a computation without revealing the data itself. Here, privacy is achieved through cryptographic means, allowing a proof to be verified without exposing the information. - **Trust Model**: The trust in TEEs heavily relies on the hardware manufacturer's ability to secure the TEE environment. Users trust that the hardware will maintain the integrity and confidentiality of the data and computations within this isolated space. Conversely, ZKPs minimize trust in the execution environment by providing mathematical proofs that can be verified by anyone, which does not require trust in the environment where the proof was created but rather in the cryptographic system itself. - **Use Cases**: Applications for TEEs are prevalent where the security of the computation environment is paramount. This includes but is not limited to, secure payment processing on mobile devices, protecting keys in DRM systems, or confidential computing in cloud services. ZKPs find their use in scenarios where proving something without revealing any underlying information is critical. This includes anonymity in blockchain transactions, privacy-preserving data analysis, or secure authentication without sharing identity details. - **Limitations**: TEEs might suffer from scalability issues due to their hardware-specific nature; they require compatible hardware which might not be universally available, and there can be performance overheads due to the additional security layers. ZKPs, while offering strong privacy guarantees, can be computationally expensive to generate, particularly for complex proofs. However, once produced, these proofs are typically lightweight to verify, but the process demands a good grasp of cryptographic concepts to implement effectively. In essence, while both technologies aim at enhancing security and privacy, they operate in different spheres. TEEs focus on securing the environment in which data is processed, making it an excellent choice for computations that need to be kept secret from the host system itself. ZKPs, by contrast, excel in scenarios where the need to prove knowledge or validate computations without exposing data is crucial, thereby offering privacy at the data interaction level rather than the environmental level. Together, they can form a robust framework for secure, private computing across various applications. ## Conclusion The role of **Trusted Execution Environments** emerges as a cornerstone in the architecture of secure computing. TEEs offer a **paradigm shift** in how we approach data security, providing a **hardware-backed assurance** of privacy and integrity that traditional software solutions cannot match. They encapsulate sensitive operations within an impregnable vault, isolated from the broader, less secure computing environment. This **isolation is crucial** in an era where data breaches and cyber threats loom large, offering a **sanctuary** for our most critical computations and data storage. TEEs are not just about security; they are about **trust**. They enable businesses, governments, and individuals to operate in environments where trust is not assumed but instead architecturally enforced through hardware. This trust extends to the execution of code where sensitive algorithms can run, financial transactions can be processed, or personal data can be analyzed **without fear of exposure** or tampering. The integration of TEEs into services like Aleph Cloud's** **[**decentralized cloud infrastructure**](/infrastructure/), through technologies such as **AMD SEV**, highlights their versatility. It demonstrates how TEEs can serve as the foundation for new computing paradigms that are not only secure but also distributed, leveraging the benefits of **blockchain** and **decentralized technologies**. This convergence of TEEs with decentralized systems not only enhances security but also promotes a **more resilient, censorship-resistant digital ecosystem**. Moreover, comparing **TEEs with Zero-Knowledge Proofs (ZKPs)** reveals the rich tapestry of tools available for privacy and security in computing. While TEEs shield the environment, ZKPs secure the information flow, together they weave a fabric of security that can adapt to a wide array of applications, from **finance to health**, from **personal privacy to enterprise-level data protection**. TEEs will undoubtedly play a pivotal role in shaping the **future of computing security**. They promise to be instrumental in contexts where **transparency, privacy, and security must coexist**, enabling new forms of computation and data handling that were previously unthinkable due to security concerns. The development and adoption of TEEs signify a move towards a future where our digital lives can be lived with **greater assurance**, where the sanctity of our data and the integrity of our computations are upheld not just by policy or software but by the very hardware that powers our world. ![Encrypted Memory TEE Build your own confidential VM](../../assets/blog/what-is-tee/img-1.svg) **Ready to Build Securely?** Implement Confidential Virtual Machines today and lead the way in privacy-first computing. [Get Started Now](https://docs.aleph.cloud/devhub/compute-resources/confidential-instances/04-confidential-instance-deploy.html) --- # Glossary URL: https://aleph.cloud/glossary/ ## ALEPH token ALEPH is the native token of the Aleph Cloud network, used to pay for cloud services, stake as a node operator to earn rewards, and participate in governance. Paying with ALEPH carries a 20% bonus over USDC or card, and the token is available on six chains — Ethereum, Solana, Base, Avalanche, Binance Smart Chain, and Tezos. ## AMD SEV AMD Secure Encrypted Virtualization (SEV) encrypts each virtual machine's memory with a unique key managed by a dedicated security processor, so the hypervisor and other VMs cannot read it. Aleph Cloud uses AMD SEV (and SEV-SNP) to power its confidential virtual machines, keeping workloads encrypted even from the node operator hosting them. ## Blockchain indexing Blockchain indexing organizes raw on-chain data into a queryable form so applications can retrieve it quickly instead of scanning the chain directly. Aleph Cloud runs indexers for ecosystems including Solana, Ethereum, and the Oasys L1 / HOME Verse L2 chains, giving dApps fast, structured access to blockchain data. ## Compute Resource Node (CRN) A Compute Resource Node is a server in the Aleph Cloud network that executes workloads — virtual machines, serverless functions, and GPU instances. Anyone meeting the hardware requirements can operate a CRN and earn ALEPH rewards for the resources they provide. ## Confidential computing Confidential computing protects data while it is being processed, not just at rest or in transit, by running workloads inside a hardware-based trusted execution environment. Aleph Cloud delivers it through AMD SEV-powered confidential VMs, so sensitive workloads stay encrypted in memory even from the infrastructure operator. ## Confidential virtual machine (CVM) A confidential virtual machine encrypts its memory and CPU state with AMD SEV so that workloads and data stay shielded even from the node operator running them. Aleph Cloud CVMs make it possible to process sensitive data on decentralized infrastructure without trusting the hardware host. ## Content addressing Content addressing identifies a file by a cryptographic hash of its contents (a CID) rather than by its location on a particular server. When you host a website on Aleph Cloud it is pinned to IPFS and served by its content ID, so the same content can be retrieved from any node that holds it. ## Core Channel Node (CCN) A Core Channel Node is the backbone of the Aleph Cloud network, managing data propagation, message validation, and integrity. Operating a CCN requires an initial stake of 200,000 ALEPH plus 500,000 ALEPH staked by other participants to activate it, and each CCN can connect up to five Compute Resource Nodes. ## Credits Credits are Aleph Cloud's prepaid balance for paying for cloud resources: you top up by converting ALEPH tokens or stablecoins into credits and spend them as you use compute, storage, and hosting. The credit system removes the requirement to hold tokens directly and lets workloads draw down balance continuously as they run. ## Decentralized cloud computing Decentralized cloud computing distributes compute and storage across a global network of independent nodes instead of centralized data centers. Aleph Cloud provides compute, storage, and hosting powered by a community of node operators, delivering censorship resistance, no vendor lock-in, and no single point of failure. ## Decentralized storage Decentralized storage spreads data across many independent nodes so no single entity controls it and there is no single point of failure. Aleph Cloud offers it through IPFS-based immutable volumes and its own native storage primitives, ensuring data redundancy, integrity, and availability across the network. ## DePIN A Decentralized Physical Infrastructure Network (DePIN) coordinates independently operated hardware — servers, storage, compute — through a blockchain and token incentives rather than a single corporation. Aleph Cloud is a DePIN: its network of 115+ core channel nodes and 640+ compute nodes is run by independent operators rewarded in ALEPH. ## Dynamic NFT A dynamic NFT is a non-fungible token whose metadata can change after minting — reflecting in-game events, scores, or external data — instead of staying fixed. Aleph Cloud powers dynamic NFTs for projects like Ubisoft's Captain Laserhawk via a serverless service that updates token metadata, accepting only changes signed by the contract owner. ## GPU instance A GPU instance is a virtual machine with dedicated graphics-processing hardware for AI inference, ML training, rendering, and simulations. Aleph Cloud offers decentralized GPU instances starting at $0.055/hour, with configurations up to 12 vCPU and 72 GB of RAM, billed pay-as-you-go. ## Instance An instance is a virtual server provisioned on the Aleph Cloud network for general computing needs, equivalent to a VPS. Instances run standard Linux distributions with SSH access and root control, and can be deployed in confidential (CVM) or GPU variants on the decentralized network. ## IPFS IPFS (InterPlanetary File System) is a peer-to-peer protocol that stores and serves files by content address across a distributed network of nodes. Aleph Cloud uses IPFS to host Web3 websites — your files are pinned to IPFS and exposed through a gateway, replicated across nodes for censorship resistance and high availability. ## microVM A microVM is a lightweight, fast-booting virtual machine that isolates a workload with far less overhead than a traditional VM. Aleph Cloud has provided micro-virtual-machine resources across networks such as Ethereum, Solana, Cosmos, and Tezos since 2020, underpinning its serverless functions and instances. ## Node operator A node operator runs a server that contributes resources to the Aleph Cloud network — either a Core Channel Node that secures and propagates data or a Compute Resource Node that executes workloads. Operators earn ALEPH rewards for the reliability and capacity they provide to the network. ## Pay-as-you-go (PAYG) A payment model where compute resources are billed continuously per unit of time used instead of through upfront commitments. On Aleph Cloud, PAYG streams ALEPH from the consumer to the network for exactly as long as the workload runs. ## Serverless function A serverless function runs your code on demand without you managing or provisioning a server, scaling automatically with usage. Aleph Cloud lets you upload a script and execute it on the decentralized network, and the same serverless infrastructure backs services like its dynamic-NFT metadata API. ## Staking Staking on Aleph Cloud means locking ALEPH tokens to help secure the decentralized compute network and earn rewards proportional to the amount staked. Staking is gasless, non-custodial, and has no lock-up; participants can delegate to a node operator, with a 10,000 ALEPH minimum to back a Core Channel Node. ## Trusted Execution Environment (TEE) A Trusted Execution Environment is a secure, hardware-isolated area within a processor where code runs in complete isolation from the rest of the system, so even the host OS or server operator cannot access its contents. Aleph Cloud applies TEE principles through AMD SEV to run confidential VMs for sensitive Web3 workloads. ## Verifiable Random Function (VRF) A Verifiable Random Function generates random numbers together with a proof that anyone can check, so the randomness can be trusted as fair and unmanipulated. Aleph Cloud's VRF solution powers transparent, provably-fair mechanics such as Ubisoft's Champions Tactics champion mint. ## Virtual Private Server (VPS) A Virtual Private Server is a dedicated virtual machine with its own CPU, RAM, and storage, giving you root control via SSH. Aleph Cloud's decentralized VPS instances run on a distributed network of compute nodes — from 1 to 12 vCPU and 2 to 24 GB RAM — starting at $0.0143/hour (~$10.44/month), with storage included. ## Web3 hosting Web3 hosting serves websites from decentralized infrastructure like IPFS across a distributed network of nodes, with no single server to take down. Aleph Cloud's Web3 hosting supports frameworks such as Next.js, React, and Vue.js, offers a free tier for static sites, and supports custom and ENS domains.