# Rootstock > Build together on Bitcoin Rootstock is a Bitcoin sidechain that runs EVM-compatible smart contracts secured by Bitcoin's proof-of-work. It lets developers deploy decentralized applications and lets users put their Bitcoin to work in DeFi. Rootstock is a smart contract platform built as a sidechain to Bitcoin. Since its 2018 launch, it has run EVM-compatible contracts, so developers can deploy applications written for Ethereum using the same languages, wallets, and tooling. Its goal is to extend what Bitcoin can be used for without moving users off the Bitcoin security model. The network is merge-mined with Bitcoin, meaning Bitcoin miners secure Rootstock blocks with the same proof-of-work they already perform. Transaction fees are paid in rBTC, a token pegged one-to-one with BTC through a two-way peg, which lets holders move Bitcoin onto Rootstock and back. On Rootstock, users can lend, borrow, provide liquidity, and earn yield with their Bitcoin through a range of DeFi applications. Assets can be bridged in from other blockchains, including Ethereum, so existing tokens and liquidity can reach the network. Rootstock serves developers building Bitcoin-based applications, BTC holders looking for on-chain uses for their coins, and projects seeking funding and support through the Rootstock Collective. Its tooling, documentation, and grants are aimed at teams that want Bitcoin settlement with smart contract flexibility. - Type: Network - Sector: Blockchain Platforms - Status: Active - Founded: 2015-10-01 - Profile: https://thegrid.id/profiles/rootstock ## Products - [Rootstock](https://thegrid.id/profiles/rootstock): Rootstock is an EVM-compatible Bitcoin sidechain through merged mining consensus, enabling smart contract execution with RBTC as the native gas token. The system maintains a two-way peg with Bitcoin through the PowPeg mechanism while providing 30-second block times and enhanced transaction throughput. (L2, Live, Main Product) - [PowPeg](https://thegrid.id/profiles/rootstock): PowPeg facilitates two-way asset transfers between Bitcoin and Rootstock networks through specialized hardware security modules and multi-signature protocols. The system uses merge-mining consensus and tamper-proof PowHSM devices to secure Bitcoin deposits without human intervention. (Bridge, Live) - [Rootstock Token Bridge](https://thegrid.id/profiles/rootstock): Rootstock Token Bridge enables ERC-20 token transfers between Ethereum and Rootstock networks through federation-secured smart contracts. The system locks original tokens and mints equivalent Side Tokens maintaining 1:1 ratios with support for various stablecoins and ERC-20 assets. (Bridge, Live) ## Assets - [Smart Bitcoin (RBTC)](https://thegrid.id/profiles/rootstock): RBTC is the native token of Rootstock, a Bitcoin sidechain that enables smart contract execution. It is used to pay transaction fees and interact with decentralized applications on the Rootstock network. RBTC maintains a 1:1 peg with Bitcoin through the PowPeg bridge, which uses tamper-proof hardware security modules and Bitcoin's proof-of-work to secure deposits without relying on centralized custodians. (Wrapped Tokens) - [Rootstock Infrastructure Framework (RIF)](https://thegrid.id/profiles/rootstock): RIF is the utility token of the Rootstock Infrastructure Framework. It is used to access infrastructure services, participate in DeFi protocols across the Rootstock ecosystem, and pay for decentralized tools including storage, naming services, and payment solutions. By staking RIF, users mint stRIF tokens that enable governance participation in RootstockCollective DAO through voting, proposal creation, and rewards allocation, where both builders and backers earn Bitcoin and RIF rewards for contributing to the ecosystem. (Utility) ## Links - [Main](https://rootstock.io) - [Blog](https://blog.rootstock.io) - [Documentation](https://dev.rootstock.io) - [Whitepaper](https://rootstock.io/static/6c63424b1adab118667c0f85b44c6d65/rif-whitepaper-en.pdf) - [Media Kit/branding](https://rootstock.io/brand) - [Forum](https://research.rsk.dev) - [Privacy policy](https://rootstock.io/privacy-policy) - [Terms of Service](https://rootstock.io/terms-conditions) - [Discord](https://discord.gg/rootstock) - [Twitter / X](https://x.com/rootstock_io) - [Telegram](https://t.me/rskofficialcommunity) - [GitHub](https://github.com/rsksmart/devportal) ## Legal This data is provided under two licensing models. Model 1 - open data. 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