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Introduction to Sonr

This document introduces Sonr’s blockchain architecture, core components, and integration patterns. It covers identity management, authentication, data sovereignty, and cross-chain operations. This document does not cover implementation details or code examples—see the Quick Start Guide for hands-on tutorials.
Developers building Web3 applications who want simple integration patterns. Validators interested in securing a next-generation blockchain network. Users seeking sovereign digital identity solutions. Prerequisites: Basic understanding of web development (HTML/JavaScript) for developers; blockchain consensus for validators.

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Summary

Sonr is a Cosmos SDK blockchain that simplifies Web3 through Decentralized Identity (DIDs), passwordless authentication (WebAuthn), and user-controlled agents (Vaults). Developers integrate crypto features using standard web technologies. Validators secure a network bridging Web2 and Web3. Users gain digital sovereignty without complexity.

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What is Sonr?

Sonr transforms blockchain interaction through four innovations:
  1. W3C-compliant DIDs replace wallet addresses
  2. WebAuthn eliminates seed phrases
  3. Personal Vaults automate blockchain operations
  4. UCAN permissions prevent unlimited approvals
These components create a system where users onboard in 30 seconds using biometrics, developers add crypto features with HTML forms, and validators earn rewards securing digital sovereignty.

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Why Sonr Matters

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Current Problems

Traditional Web3 forces users to:
  • Manage 24-word seed phrases
  • Install browser extensions
  • Understand gas fees
  • Navigate multiple wallets
One mistake loses everything.

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Sonr’s Solution

Sonr provides:
  • 30-second onboarding with Face ID or fingerprint
  • No seed phrases through WebAuthn security
  • No gas fees for account creation
  • Universal compatibility across all devices
  • Automatic recovery via social and biometric methods

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Core Architecture

Decentralized Identity (DID)

W3C-compliant identity system using WebAuthn for passwordless authentication

Decentralized Web Nodes (DWN)

Personal Vaults acting as user-controlled agents for blockchain interactions

UCAN Authorization

Capability-based permissions replacing dangerous unlimited approve patterns

Service Registry

Stake-based trust system for service discovery and DNS verification

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For Developers

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Integration Benefits

Sonr enables crypto features without blockchain knowledge:
  • Use existing skills: HTML, CSS, JavaScript
  • Zero dependencies: No SDKs or wallet libraries
  • Progressive enhancement: Start simple, add features
  • Enterprise ready: Integrates with existing auth systems

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Simple Payment Example

Transform any HTML form into a crypto payment interface: 
<form hx-post="/api/sonr/payment" hx-target="#result">
  <input type="email" name="recipient" placeholder="alice@sonr.id" />
  <input type="number" name="amount" placeholder="25.00" />
  <select name="currency">
    <option value="USDC">USDC</option>
    <option value="ATOM">ATOM</option>
  </select>
  <button type="submit">Send Payment</button>
</form>
Users approve with biometrics. Vaults handle transactions. No wallet connections required.

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Developer Resources

Browser Integration

Web browser integration patterns and examples

Highway Wallet

Highway system powering user sovereignty

Payment Integration

Payment integration guide

Blockchain Modules

Core blockchain modules and architecture

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For Validators

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Network Components

Validators secure four critical systems:

Blockchain Core

Cosmos SDK with IBC for cross-chain operations

Token Economics

Tokenomics, staking, and governance

Highway Proxy

HTTP bridge supporting WebAuthn authentication

Validator Setup

Validator node setup and operations

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Validator Operations

Validators perform five key functions:
  1. Validate identities: Process DID operations and WebAuthn credentials
  2. Execute Vaults: Run capability delegations and revocations
  3. Bridge chains: Process IBC and InterchainAccount transactions
  4. Verify services: Validate DNS ownership and registrations
  5. Coordinate MPC: Participate in multi-party key management

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Economic Incentives

  • Block rewards: Earn from transaction fees and inflation
  • Service fees: Share revenue from registrations
  • MEV protection: Built-in maximal extractable value prevention
  • Sustainable model: Long-term network health design

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Key Concepts

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Identity Management

Identity System

W3C DIDs with WebAuthn for digital sovereignty

DID Module

Blockchain implementation of identity management

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Data Sovereignty

DWN Module

Personal Vaults for user-controlled data and agents

Blockchain Network

Network architecture and specifications

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Authorization System

UCAN Module

Capability-based permissions for secure delegation

Service Module

Registration, verification, and trust management

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Cross-Chain Features

Blockchain Network

Network architecture and cross-chain features

Payment Handler

W3C API for seamless crypto payments

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Getting Started

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Developers

Build Web3 applications without blockchain complexity:

Quick Start

Create your first Sonr application in 10 minutes

Browser Integration

Real-world integration patterns for web applications

CLI Tools

Command line tools and utilities

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Validators

Secure the future of digital sovereignty:

Node Setup

Complete validator installation guide

Token Economics

Token distribution, staking, and governance

Security

Security practices and compliance

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Users

Experience true digital ownership:

Create Identity

30-second setup with biometric authentication

Use Your Vault

Master your personal Web3 agent

Security Guide

Privacy and sovereignty protection

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Next Steps

Developers: Start with the Quick Start Guide to build your first Sonr application.Validators: Follow the Node Setup Guide to join the network.Users: Create your identity in under 30 seconds.
Explore the concepts above or dive into specific topics using the navigation menu. Join us in building the sovereign internet where identity belongs to individuals, not platforms.