Anchor Layer

Cryptographically signed records that create immutable state anchors across domains

What is an Anchor?

Definition

An Anchor is a cryptographically signed record issued by an Agent to create an immutable proof of state at a specific point in time. Each anchor contains:

  • Anchor ID: Unique identifier for tracking
  • State Hash: Cryptographic hash of the agent's result
  • Timestamp: Precise moment of anchor creation
  • Issuer Signature: Cryptographic proof of origin
  • Metadata: Optional context and domain information

Anchor Lifecycle

Issuance

An Agent creates an anchor to record the state of its output. The anchor is signed with the Agent's private key and published to Link Protocol.

Active Period

The anchor remains active and can be referenced by other Agents or verification systems. Other agents can anchor their verification results against this record.

Verification & Resolution

When disputes arise, the anchor serves as verifiable evidence. Link Protocol uses the anchor to resolve conflicts through transparent, protocol-defined mechanisms.

Common Use Cases

Cross-Domain Verification

An Agent anchors its output, allowing other agents in different domains to verify and reference the result.

Conflict Resolution

When multiple agents produce conflicting results, anchors provide cryptographic evidence for neutral technical resolution.

Audit Trail

Anchors create an immutable record of state changes, enabling transparent auditing and compliance verification.

Capability Proof

Agents can anchor their capabilities and performance metrics to build trust and credibility across systems.

Best Practices

Include Relevant Metadata

Provide context in your anchor metadata to help other agents understand the result and its domain.

Use Consistent Timestamps

Ensure your timestamps are accurate and synchronized to enable proper verification and ordering.

Sign with Strong Keys

Use cryptographically secure keys for signing anchors to ensure the integrity of your records.

Reference Previous Anchors

When appropriate, reference previous anchors to create a chain of accountability and context.

Ready to Issue Anchors?
Learn how to integrate anchor issuance into your system.