What Is Conflux (CFX)?
article-7338

What Is Conflux (CFX)?

September 17, 2025 · 4m ·

Conflux (CFX): Scalable Layer‑1 Blockchain

Conflux is a public Layer‑1 blockchain built to address a common problem in decentralized networks: growing demand slows processing and pushes up costs. By combining a novel data structure with a hybrid consensus design, Conflux aims to deliver higher throughput and lower fees, making it easier for developers and users to run decentralized apps and DeFi services.

Quick Summary

  • Scalability: Conflux uses a Tree‑Graph (a type of DAG) to process multiple blocks in parallel rather than in a single linear chain.
  • Consensus and security: A hybrid approach blends Proof‑of‑Work elements with DAG‑based ordering and staking participation to balance safety and performance.
  • CFX token utility: The native token powers governance, staking rewards, transaction fees, and access to services across the ecosystem.

The Tree-Graph: A New Approach to Scalability

Traditional blockchains append blocks one after another, which can create bottlenecks when activity spikes. Conflux adopts a Tree‑Graph architecture—imagine multiple branches growing from the same trunk—so different groups of transactions can be validated in parallel. That parallelism helps the network handle more transactions per second while keeping individual fees lower.

The Conflux Consensus Engine

A Hybrid PoW + PoS Model

Conflux’s protocol combines ideas from Proof‑of‑Work mining with a DAG‑style structure that organizes and orders blocks. This lets the network retain strong security guarantees associated with mining while using the graph structure to accept and confirm many blocks concurrently. Staking also plays a role: token holders can lock CFX to support network operations and receive rewards, linking economic incentives to system integrity.

GHAST: Ensuring Order

The GHAST (Greediest Heaviest Adaptive Sub‑Tree) mechanism analyzes the graph and identifies the branch with the most accumulated work and confirmations. By preferring that "heaviest" sub‑tree, the protocol defines a canonical ordering for transactions, prevents double‑spends, and ensures consensus even when many blocks are produced in parallel.

The CFX token

The CFX token is central to the Conflux ecosystem.

  • Governance: Holders can vote on protocol proposals and parameter changes.
  • Staking and security: Locking CFX supports validation processes and earns rewards.
  • Fees: Network transactions and services settle in CFX.
  • Ecosystem participation: CFX is used to access DApps, premium features, and community programs.

Initial Distribution of the Genesis Supply

The genesis allocation totaled five billion CFX and was split roughly across several categories:

  • Private investors: up to 12%
  • Foundation holdings: 4% plus any unsold tokens from initial rounds
  • Founding team: 36%
  • Community fund: 8%
  • Ecosystem fund: 40%

Issuance Mechanics and Burning

New CFX enters circulation through two main channels. Miners receive block rewards—approximately 1 CFX per mined block, a figure that can be adjusted through on‑chain governance. Separately, stakers earn interest for securing the network, with reward rates set by governance decisions. To manage inflation and align incentives, portions of fees and sponsored storage costs are periodically burned, reducing supply over time.

On‑chain Governance and Adjustable Parameters

A decentralized governance body controls several protocol levers, including:

  • Block reward for miners
  • Staking reward rates
  • Proportion of sponsored storage costs that are burned
  • Portion of transaction fees sent to burn

Built for Developers

Conflux is fully compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM), which means developers can easily migrate their existing dApps and smart contracts from Ethereum using familiar tools like Solidity and Truffle.

A native cross-chain bridge allows for the seamless transfer of assets and data between Conflux and other major blockchains.

Native Tools and Applications

The Conflux ecosystem includes native wallets, developer hubs, and decentralized exchanges that run on the network. These components help users manage assets, launch tokens, participate in governance, swap tokens, stake, and discover new DeFi offerings built for Conflux’s high‑throughput environment.

Why Conflux Matters for Web3 Growth

Conflux offers a unique solution to the blockchain trilemma by delivering high throughput without sacrificing security or decentralization. Its Tree-Graph architecture and hybrid consensus model provide a powerful foundation for building scalable, low-cost dApps.

For developers and projects looking to escape the congestion of other networks, Conflux presents a compelling, EVM-compatible alternative built for the future of Web3.