# What is OpenGPU

OpenGPU Network is a decentralized, blockchain-based computing network that connects GPU providers and clients worldwide.

## The Current Landscape of AI Compute

Demand for GPU compute is surging while supply remains concentrated. Centralized infrastructure brings inherent tradeoffs: controlled access, opaque pricing, and approval processes. Meanwhile, significant GPU capacity remains underutilized globally—in data centers, enterprises, and individual machines.

OpenGPU connects this fragmented supply with growing demand.

## The OpenGPU Approach

OpenGPU creates an open task marketplace where:

* **Clients** publish computational tasks with transparent pricing
* **Providers** compete to execute tasks and earn rewards
* **Smart contracts** handle coordination, payments, and trust automatically
* [**$OGPU**](/opengpu-network/blockchain-reference/token.md) is the native currency for all network operations

No gatekeepers. No approval processes. Real-time market pricing.

## Core Components

| Component              | Purpose                                             |
| ---------------------- | --------------------------------------------------- |
| **OpenGPU Blockchain** | L1 EVM-compatible chain for settlement and security |
| **OpenGPU Protocol**   | Smart contracts governing the task marketplace      |
| **Applications**       | Client App, Provider Suite, SDK, Management dApp    |

## How It Fits Together

```
Clients                     Providers
   │                            │
   │ publish tasks              │ execute tasks
   ▼                            ▼
┌─────────────────────────────────────┐
│         OpenGPU Protocol            │
│    (Sources, Tasks, Payments)       │
├─────────────────────────────────────┤
│         OpenGPU Blockchain          │
│      (Settlement, Security)         │
└─────────────────────────────────────┘
```

> See [Ecosystem Overview](/opengpu-network/ecosystem/overview.md) for the full picture.


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