Rootstock (RSK) is a smart contract platform secured by the Bitcoin network through merge-mining. Originally launched in 2018 by RSK Labs (now part of IOV Labs), Rootstock enables developers to build Ethereum-compatible decentralized applications (dApps) that benefit from Bitcoin's hash rate security. The platform uses a two-way peg mechanism called Powpeg to bridge Bitcoin (BTC) to its sidechain as RBTC, the native token used for transaction fees and smart contract execution.

RSK is EVM-compatible, meaning developers can deploy Solidity smart contracts and use familiar Ethereum tooling while leveraging Bitcoin's mining infrastructure for security. The network achieves faster block times (approximately 30 seconds) and higher transaction throughput compared to Bitcoin's base layer. IOV Labs, the organization behind RSK, also developed the RIF (RSK Infrastructure Framework) suite of protocols for decentralized storage, payments, naming services, and communications built on top of RSK.

Rootstock positions itself as the way to bring programmability and DeFi to the Bitcoin ecosystem without requiring a separate token for security. The platform is used for decentralized finance applications, tokenization, and stablecoin issuance in Latin America and other emerging markets. IOV Labs has received backing from investors including Bitmain, Digital Currency Group, and Coinsilium.

Key Features

• Bitcoin Merge-Mining — Secured by Bitcoin’s hash rate via merge-mining
• EVM-Compatible — Deploy Ethereum smart contracts on a Bitcoin-secured chain
• Powpeg Bridge — Two-way peg between BTC and RBTC
• RIF Services — Decentralized infrastructure protocols for storage, payments, and identity

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