update blogs

This reverts commit 67bdf28216.

.env

@@ -1 +0,0 @@
-SHOWPRIVATE=true

.github/workflows/tf_update_dev.yml

@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ on:
     branches: [ development ]
 
 jobs:
-  deploy:
+  job_one:
     name: Deploy
     runs-on: ubuntu-latest
     steps:
@@ -22,25 +22,3 @@ jobs:
           git reset --hard origin/development
           sed -i "s/https:\/\/www.threefold.io/https:\/\/dev.threefold.io/g" config.toml
           ./build.sh
-          
-  wait:
-    needs: deploy
-    name: Wait for Website Update
-    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
-    steps:
-    - name: Wait Period
-      id: wait-deploy
-      run: |
-        echo "Sleeping for 30"
-        sleep 30
-        
-  checklinks:
-    needs: wait
-    name: Check for Broken Links
-    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
-    steps:
-      - name: Check for Broken Links
-        id: link-report
-        uses: docker://ghcr.io/threefoldfoundation/website-link-checker:latest
-        with:
-          args: 'https://www2.threefold.io -w 404'

.github/workflows/tf_update_prod.yml

@@ -4,7 +4,7 @@ on:
     branches: [ master ]
 
 jobs:
-  deploy:
+  job_one:
     name: Deploy
     runs-on: ubuntu-latest
     steps:
@@ -22,25 +22,3 @@ jobs:
           git reset --hard origin/master
           sed -i "s/https:\/\/dev.threefold.io/https:\/\/www.threefold.io/g" config.toml
           ./build.sh
-          
-  wait:
-    needs: deploy
-    name: Wait for Website Update
-    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
-    steps:
-    - name: Wait Period
-      id: wait-deploy
-      run: |
-        echo "Sleeping for 30"
-        sleep 30
-        
-  checklinks:
-    needs: wait
-    name: Check for Broken Links
-    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
-    steps:
-      - name: Check for Broken Links
-        id: link-report
-        uses: docker://ghcr.io/threefoldfoundation/website-link-checker:latest
-        with:
-          args: 'https://www.threefold.io -w 404'

.github/workflows/update_dev2.yml

@@ -1,46 +0,0 @@
-name: www3.threefold_io
-on: 
-  push:
-    branches: [ development_sasha ]
-
-jobs:
-  deploy:
-    name: Deploy
-    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
-    steps:
-    - name: pushing latest change on www3.threefold.io
-      uses: appleboy/ssh-action@master
-      with:
-        host: www3.threefold.io
-        username: webuser
-        key: ${{ secrets.TF_SECRET }}
-        port: 34022
-        script: |
-          cd websites/tmp/www_threefold_io/
-          git log -1
-          git restore .
-          git pull
-          sed -i "s/https:\/\/dev.threefold.io/https:\/\/dev2.threefold.io/g" config.toml
-          bash build.sh
-          
-  wait:
-    needs: deploy
-    name: Wait for Website Update
-    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
-    steps:
-    - name: Wait Period
-      id: wait-deploy
-      run: |
-        echo "Sleeping for 30"
-        sleep 30
-        
-  checklinks:
-    needs: wait
-    name: Check for Broken Links
-    runs-on: ubuntu-latest
-    steps:
-      - name: Check for Broken Links
-        id: link-report
-        uses: docker://ghcr.io/threefoldfoundation/website-link-checker:latest
-        with:
-          args: 'https://www3.threefold.io -w 404'

.gitignore

@@ -1,35 +1,21 @@
-examples/builder
-examples/docker
-examples/publisher
-examples/texttools
-examples/gittools
-examples/tmux
-examples/vredis2
 *dSYM/
-publisher/publish
-install_publisher
 .vmodules/
-vex_webserver
-publishtools/publishtools
 .vscode
 *.log
 !.env.example
 .cache
 .DS_Store
 src/.temp
-content/person
-content/project
 node_modules
 !.env.example
 .env
 .env.*
 yarn.lock
-.installed
 package-lock.json
 dist
 .temp
 run*
 install*
 public
-static/css
+.done
 tailwindcss

.gitmodules

@@ -1,4 +0,0 @@
-[submodule "threefold_data"]
-	path = threefold_data
-	url = https://github.com/threefoldfoundation/threefold_data.git
-    ignore = dirty

CONTRIBUTING.md

@@ -0,0 +1,18 @@
+![readme](https://user-images.githubusercontent.com/43240801/236867088-56c95abd-510c-4202-b0c5-317cdfb75cb3.png)
+
+It is highly important to follow this procedure to contribute to the website content. <br>
+__WARNING__: DO NOT commit straight into the __master__ / __development__ branches.
+
+1. Feel free to [create a new issue](https://github.com/threefoldfoundation/www_threefold_io/issues/new) to report an error on the website, or if you have any suggestions on website improvements. 
+
+2. Make your own branch from the __development__ branch. By creating a new branch from __development__ you will be provided with the latest copy of the live website content at the staging site, www2.threefold.io.
+
+3. Add your edits into your own branch via code editor locally, and push your local changes online. WARNING: DO NOT add your edits straight into __master__ / __development__ branch.
+
+5. Create a PR to merge your own branch into **development**, and assign one of [ThreeFold's Web Admins](https://github.com/orgs/threefoldfoundation/teams/team_web_admin) on your PR as reviewer, or assign @sasha-astiadi as reviewer.
+
+7. When PR is approved, you can see your changes on staging env on www2.threefold.io (development branch)
+
+8. Admin will then create a PR to merge **development** into into **master** (production branch)
+
+10. When PR is approved, you can see your changes live on production www.threefold.io (master branch).

Makefile

@@ -1,7 +0,0 @@
-SHELL := /bin/bash
-
-build:
-	. ./build.sh
-
-start:
-	. ./start.sh

README.md

@@ -1,89 +1,49 @@
-# Welcome to Welcome to ThreeFold Website RepositoryWebsite Repository
+# Threefold Website
+Official website for Threefold.
 
-![](./static/images/tf_logo.png)
+**Administration & Access**
 
-## About
+This website is administered by [ThreeFold's Web Admins](https://github.com/orgs/threefoldfoundation/teams/team_web_admin). Publishing changes directly to `development` and `master` branches requires access for repository admins. Please see [contribution procedures](CONTRIBUTING.md) for more information.
 
-The official website of ThreeFold Foundation. <br>
+**Deployment**
+- Production: [www.threefold.io](https://www.threefold.io) (`master` branch)
+- Staging: [www2.threefold.io](https://www2.threefold.io) (`development` branch)
 
-Production: [www.threefold.io](https://www.threefold.io) (master branch)
+## Getting started
 
-Staging: www2.threefold.io (development branch)
+1. Install `hero` if you don't have it
 
-Last Updated: September 2024
+```bash
+curl -sL https://raw.githubusercontent.com/freeflowuniverse/crystallib/development/scripts/installer_hero.sh | bash
+```
 
-## Administrators
+1. Clone repository
 
-[ThreeFold's Web Admins](https://github.com/orgs/threefoldfoundation/teams/team_web_admin)
+2. edit content or playbook
 
-## Contribution Procedure
+3. run playbook to preview website in browser
 
-![readme](https://user-images.githubusercontent.com/43240801/236867088-56c95abd-510c-4202-b0c5-317cdfb75cb3.png)
+```bash
+#is using branch development_zola
+hero zola -u https://github.com/threefoldfoundation/www_threefold_io/tree/development_zola/playbook
+#or in this repo, which does above
+start.sh
+```
 
-It is highly important to follow this procedure to contribute to the website content. <br>
-__WARNING__: DO NOT commit straight into the __master__ / __development__ branches.
-
-1. Feel free to [create a new issue](https://github.com/threefoldfoundation/www_threefold_io/issues/new) to report an error on the website, or if you have any suggestions on website improvements. 
-
-2. Make your own branch from the __development__ branch. By creating a new branch from __development__ you will be provided with the latest copy of the live website content at the staging site, www2.threefold.io.
-
-3. Add your edits into your own branch via code editor locally, and push your local changes online. WARNING: DO NOT add your edits straight into __master__ / __development__ branch.
-
-5. Create a PR to merge your own branch into **development**, and assign one of [ThreeFold's Web Admins](https://github.com/orgs/threefoldfoundation/teams/team_web_admin) on your PR as reviewer, or assign @sasha-astiadi as reviewer.
-
-7. When PR is approved, you can see your changes on staging env on www2.threefold.io (development branch)
-
-8. Admin will then create a PR to merge **development** into into **master** (production branch)
-
-10. When PR is approved, you can see your changes live on production www.threefold.io (master branch).
+4. save and publish changes
 
 ## Development
 
-While contributing content to this site doesn't strictly require setting up a development environment, it will allow you to preview your changes and that's super handy.
-
-To do that, the following prerequisites are needed:
-
-* macOS or Linux
-* [Zola](https://www.getzola.org/documentation/getting-started/installation/)
-
-Then clone the repository recursively to also pull in contents of `threefold_data`:
+This website is built with `hero`, using `zola` under the hood. 
 
 ```bash
-#if you don't have hero installed yet, run the following commands
-curl https://raw.githubusercontent.com/freeflowuniverse/crystallib/development/scripts/install_hero.sh > /tmp/hero_install.sh
-bash /tmp/hero_install.sh
-
-#install zola & tailwind
-hero installers -n zola
-
-#get this repo be careful --pr will remove all local changes (pull reset), -b development means we are on the development branch
-hero git pull -u https://github.com/threefoldfoundation/www_threefold_io -b development -pr
-
-#cd to the directory
-eval $(hero git cd -u https://github.com/threefoldfoundation/www_threefold_io)
-
-bash build.sh
-
+#push changes
+hero git push -f www_threefold_io  -m 'some comment'
+hero git push -f threefold_data  -m 'some comment'
 ```
 
 Finally, start a browsable local copy of the site that will respond to changes in the source files like this:
 
-```
-zola serve
-```
-
 Zola will display a local address such as `http://127.0.0.1:1111` which you can click or copy and paste into your browser to view the site on your own machine.
 
 That's it—have fun!
-
-
-# Guidelines for Editing Blog, News, and Team Images
-
-### General:
-Ensure all images are optimized to be less than 1MB for faster loading and better performance.
-
-### Blog & News:
-Use a resolution of **1200 x 600** pixels or maintain the same aspect ratio to fit seamlessly with placeholders.
-
-### Team:
-Keep images square with a resolution of **640 x 640** pixels for consistent appearance.

_archive/6_faq.md

@@ -0,0 +1,63 @@
+## FAQ
+
+Below we add an FAQ Section.
+
+```js
+!!website.section_add
+    name: faq
+    title: FAQ
+    template: layouts/faq.html
+```
+
+Now we add our FAQ Pages to the section.
+
+```js
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "How ThreeFold compares to similar projects in the space?"
+    collection: "content"
+    file: "how_threefold_compares.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "What is ThreeFold?"
+    collection: "content"
+    file: "what_is_threefold.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "What is the ThreeFold Grid?"
+    collection: "content"
+    file: "what_is_tf_grid.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "Is the ThreeFold Grid live already?"
+    collection: "content"
+    file: "is_tf_grid_live.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "What is the Threefold Connect?"
+    collection: "content"
+    file: "what_is_tfconnect.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "Does the ThreeFold use consensus?"
+    collection: "content"
+    file: "does_tf_use_consensus.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "Is there anything done for the ThreeFold Grid to be sustainable?"
+    collection: "content"
+    file: "is_tf_grid_sustainable.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "How can I get involved with ThreeFold if I am not very technical?"
+    collection: "content"
+    file: 'how_can_i_get_involved.md'
+```
+

_archive/7_careers.md

@@ -0,0 +1,54 @@
+## Careers
+
+Below we add a careers section.
+
+```js
+!!website.section_add
+    name: careers
+    title: Careers
+```
+
+Now we add our FAQ Pages to the section.
+
+```js
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "How ThreeFold compares to similar projects in the space?"
+    page: "content:how_threefold_compares.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "What is ThreeFold?"
+    page: "content:what_is_threefold.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "What is the ThreeFold Grid?"
+    page: "content:what_is_tf_grid.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "Is the ThreeFold Grid live already?"
+    page: "content:is_tf_grid_live.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "What is the Threefold Connect?"
+    page: "content:what_is_tfconnect.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "Does the ThreeFold use consensus?"
+    page: "content:does_tf_use_consensus.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "Is there anything done for the ThreeFold Grid to be sustainable?"
+    page: "content:is_tf_grid_sustainable.md"
+
+!!website.page_add
+    section: faq
+    title: "How can I get involved with ThreeFold if I am not very technical?"
+    page: 'content:how_can_i_get_involved.md'
+```
+

build.sh

@@ -1,46 +0,0 @@
-echo "Starting build..."
-
-SOURCE=${BASH_SOURCE[0]}
-DIR_OF_THIS_SCRIPT="$( dirname "$SOURCE" )"
-ABS_DIR_OF_SCRIPT="$( realpath $DIR_OF_THIS_SCRIPT )"
-
-# TODO: Check if current version is latest to avoid redundant installation
-if [[ -f "tailwindcss" ]]
-then
-    rm tailwindcss
-fi
-
-# checks os and architecture for correct release
-# https://stackoverflow.com/a/8597411 
-echo "Installing & building tailwind..."
-ASSET="tailwindcss"
-
-if [[ "$OSTYPE" == "linux-gnu"* ]]; then
-    ASSET="$ASSET-linux"
-elif [[ "$OSTYPE" == "darwin"* ]]; then
-    ASSET="$ASSET-macos"
-fi
-if [[ "$(uname -m)" == "x86_64"* ]]; then
-    ASSET="$ASSET-x64"
-elif [[ "$(uname -m)" == "arm64"* ]]; then
-    ASSET="$ASSET-arm64"
-fi
-
-curl -sLO "https://github.com/tailwindlabs/tailwindcss/releases/download/v3.4.17/${ASSET}"
-chmod +x $ASSET
-mv $ASSET tailwindcss
-
-
-# initialized and configures tailwind if not configured
-echo "Initializing tailwind..."
-if [[ ! -f "tailwind.config.js" ]]
-then
-    ./tailwindcss init
-    sed -i '' "s|  content: \\[\\],|  content: \\['./templates/**/*.html'\\],|g" tailwind.config.js
-fi
-
-# compiles tailwind css for prod & builds project
-echo "Compiling tailwindcss and building zola project..."
-rm -rf public static/css
-./tailwindcss -i css/index.css -o ./static/css/index.css --minify
-zola --root $ABS_DIR_OF_SCRIPT build

config.toml

@@ -1,100 +0,0 @@
-# The URL the site will be built for
-base_url = "https://dev.threefold.io"
-# Change this to your own URL! Please note this variable **must** be uncommented .
-
-title = "ThreeFold"
-description = "Our global digital backbone"
-
-# When set to "true", a feed is automatically generated.
-#generate_feed = true
-
-# The filename to use for the feed. Used as the template filename, too.
-# Defaults to "atom.xml", which has a built-in template that renders an Atom 1.0 feed.
-# There is also a built-in template "rss.xml" that renders an RSS 2.0 feed.
-#feed_filename = "atom.xml"
-
-# The number of articles to include in the feed. All items are included if
-# this limit is not set (the default).
-# feed_limit = 10
-
-# Whether to automatically compile all Sass files in the sass directory
-compile_sass = false
-
-# When set to "true", the generated HTML files are minified.
-# minify_html = true
-# I'm keeping off for now -- buggy -- 2021-02-05 (@keats says it'll be fixed 0.14.0)
-
-# Whether to build a search index to be used later on by a JavaScript library
-build_search_index = false
-
-[markdown]
-# Whether to do syntax highlighting
-# Theme can be customised by setting the `highlight_theme` variable to a theme supported by Zola
-highlight_code = true
-highlight_theme = "visual-studio-dark"
-
-# When set to "true", emoji aliases translated to their corresponding
-# Unicode emoji equivalent in the rendered Markdown files. (e.g.: :smile: => 😄)
-render_emoji = false
-
-# Whether external links are to be opened in a new tab
-# If this is true, a `rel="noopener"` will always automatically be added for security reasons
-# external_links_target_blank = false
-
-# Whether to set rel="nofollow" for all external links
-external_links_no_follow = true
-
-# Whether to set rel="noreferrer" for all external links
-external_links_no_referrer = true
-
-# Whether smart punctuation is enabled (changing quotes, dashes, dots in their typographic form)
-# For example, `...` into `…`, `"quote"` into `“curly”` etc
-smart_punctuation = true
-
-#[build]
-#not_found = "404.md"
-
-[[taxonomies]]
-name = "categories"
-feed = true
-paginate_by = 6
-paginate_path = "blog-posts"
-
-[[taxonomies]]
-name = "partners-category"
-feed = true
-paginate_by = 6
-paginate_path = "partner-card"
-
-[[taxonomies]]
-name = "news-category"
-feed = true
-paginate_by = 6
-paginate_path = "news-card"
-
-[[taxonomies]]
-name = "roles"
-feed = true
-paginate_by = 2
-paginate_path = "join-us"
-
-[[taxonomies]]
-name = "tags"
-feed = true
-paginate_by = 9
-paginate_path = "tags"
-
-[[taxonomies]]
-name = "people"
-feed = false
-paginate_by = 9
-paginate_path = "people"
-
-[[taxonomies]]
-name = "memberships"
-feed = false
-paginate_by = 8
-paginate_path = "people/memberships"
-
-[extra]
-# Put all your custom variables here

content/404.md

@@ -1,8 +0,0 @@
----
-title: "404"
-description: ""
-insert_anchor_links: "left"
-template: "404.html"
-
----
-

content/_index.md

@@ -1,12 +0,0 @@
----
-title: "ThreeFold"
-description: "TF offers a secure, sovereign infrastructure layer for the Internet, delivering unparalleled scalability, incorruptible and permanent data storage, AI and Web2/Web3/Edge compatibility, and 100% uptime for a resilient digital future." # quotation marks to allow colons where used
-#date: 2018-09-14T21:00:00-05:00
-#updated: 2021-02-20T14:40:00-06:00
-draft: false
-extra:
-  author: ThreeFold
-  imgPath: home/tf.png
----
-
-

content/about/.done

@@ -0,0 +1,3 @@
+mission.png
+people.png
+people_2.png

content/about/about.md

@@ -0,0 +1,127 @@
+<!-- section 1 (header) -->
+
+<div class="container mx-auto">
+
+{% row(style="header") %}
+
+![Image](people.png#mx-auto)
+
+|||
+
+## Founded by <span class="blue">**Internet 1.0 Pioneers**</span>
+
+About a decade ago, a group of passionate Internet & cloud veterans came together to build a system which can grow to a scalable, safe, compatible, and co-owned IT infrastructure.
+
+{% end %}
+
+<!-- section 2  -->
+
+{% row( style="center narrow mtop") %}
+
+## **Our Why**
+
+Pioneering a new digital era, ThreeFold empowers communities to reclaim digital sovereignty and promote collective prosperity online.
+
+{% end %}
+
+{% row( style="center semiNarrow") %}
+
+<div class="shadow-md border-solid border-2 border-gray-100 rounded-md p-2 lg:p-4 my-0 lg:my-4">
+
+![Image](nations.png#mx-auto)
+
+<br>
+
+#### **Empower Nations**
+
+Most countries only rely on cable networks, meaning they lack control over their own digital infrastructure.
+
+
+</div>
+
+|||
+
+<div class="shadow-md border-solid border-2 border-gray-100 rounded-md p-2 lg:p-4 my-0 lg:my-4">
+
+![Image](own.png#mx-auto)
+
+<br>
+
+#### **Own Your Data**
+
+Today, most of the cloud is owned and operated by few major companies taking all the profits and control of Internet.
+
+</div>
+
+{% end %}
+
+{% row( style="center semiNarrow mbottom") %}
+
+<div class="shadow-md border-solid border-2 border-gray-100 rounded-md p-2 lg:p-4 my-0 lg:my-4">
+
+![Image](human_right.png#mx-auto)
+
+<br>
+
+#### **A Basic Human Right**
+
+Billions of people are being left behind due to the IT landscape’s centralized infrastructure.
+
+</div>
+
+|||
+
+<div class="shadow-md border-solid border-2 border-gray-100 rounded-md p-2 lg:p-4 my-0 lg:my-4">
+
+![Image](greener.png#mx-auto)
+
+<br>
+
+#### **A Greener Planet Earth**
+
+Current IT infrastructures consume far too much energy. It's time we do something about it.
+
+</div>
+
+{% end %}
+
+
+</div>
+
+
+<!-- section 3  -->
+
+<div class="bg-gray-200">
+
+<div class="container mx-auto">
+
+{% row( style="centerItem center semiNarrow margin") %}
+
+
+## **Our Mission**
+
+![Image](mission.png#mx-auto)
+
+<br>
+
+#### To Empower Human Potential
+
+The world needs a safe infrastructure to deploy cutting edge technology, where everyone can take part. We exist to make cloud capacity available everywhere on Earth, to help others host and create new digital experiences and to enable true decentralization.
+
+|||
+
+## **Our Vision**
+
+![Image](vision.png#mx-auto)
+
+<br>
+
+#### A Better Digital World
+
+We believe in an Internet where everyone can communicate freely, exchange fairly, access educational information, and own their own data. Our digital experiences should not addict nor manipulate, rather empower.
+
+{% end %}
+
+</div>
+
+</div>

content/action/index.md

@@ -1,132 +0,0 @@
----
-title: "Take actions"
-description: "Take actions and become a part of a pioneering Web4 movement with ThreeFold on 12.12.2024" # quotation marks to allow colons where used
-template: "page.html"
-insert_anchor_links: "left"
-extra:
- author: ThreeFold
- imgPath: tf.png
----
-
-<!-- section 1 (header) -->
-
-{{ hero_video(
-    title="Building A New Internet For Everyone",
-    subtitle="Unleashing the Power of Decentralized Networks",
-    description_1="The internet is a trillion-dollar industry, and we believe it should be built and owned by everyone—an internet created by all, for all",
-    description_2="Let’s make this vision a reality.",
-    video_link="https://www.youtube.com/embed/64mbEewI0Ag?si=I0m_ShxlTUk3mok-",
-    button1_text="Take Action",
-    button1_link="/signup"
-) }}
-
-
-
-<!--section 2 (Portfolio)-->
-
-<div class="lg:py-24 py-12 mx-auto max-w-7xl lg:px-8">
-
-<div class="text-center">
-
-  ## What It Enables
-
-</div>
-<dl class="pt-8 grid max-w-xl grid-cols-1 gap-x-8 gap-y-8 lg:max-w-none lg:grid-cols-3">
-
-{{ portfolio(
-  title="Communicate securely",
-  description="Experience end-to-end encrypted communication in the shortest possible path, ensuring messages remain private and unalterable—even during disasters."
-)}}
-
-{{ portfolio(
-  title="Store effortlessly",
-  description="Securely share and store information with ease, with geo-aware capabilities that optimize data location and access. Scale seamlessly from personal use to billions of users."
-
-)}}
-
-{{ portfolio(
-  title="Restore authenticity",
-  description="Determine which information can be trusted, bringing clarity and confidence back to the digital space"
-)}}
-
-{{ portfolio(
-  title="Unlock limitless insights",
-  description="Discover, analyze, and find information with no boundaries, aided by a powerful personal AI assistant."
-)}}
-
-{{ portfolio(
-  title="Streamline your interactions",
-  description="Keep track of all your connections and simplify your life with an AI that optimizes your daily tasks and interactions."
-)}}
-
-{{ portfolio(
-  title="Take control of your digital presence",
-  description="Own and manage your data, identity, and interactions across platforms, ensuring transparency and sovereignty in the digital world."
-)}}
-
-</dl>
-</div>
-
-
-
-<!--section 3 (img_features)-->
-
-<div class="lg:py-24 py-12 mx-auto max-w-7xl lg:px-8">
-
-<div class="max-w-4xl">
-
-## Take Action Now
-
-Discover the key products that bring us closer to our vision of the new internet, laying the foundation for a more open, autonomous, and interconnected digital future.
-
-</div>
-
-{{ img_features(
-  image_src="/images/web4_tools3.png",
-  image_alt="TF_products ",
-
-  title_1="3Node",
-  description_1="The backbone of storage and infrastructure, providing compute and data resources. Order today.
-",
-  button_text_1="Learn More",
-  button_link_1="https://docs.threefold.io/docs/components/3node/",
-
-  title_2="3Phone",
-  description_2="Secure smartphone that comes with built-indecentralized apps that seamlessly integrate with the ThreeFold Grid.",
-  button_text_2="Learn More",
-  button_link_2="https://docs.threefold.io/docs/components/3phone/",
-
-  title_3="3Bot",
-  description_3="An AI-powered virtual system administrator helps deploy and manage your digital life.",
-  button_text_3="Learn More",
-  button_link_3="https://docs.threefold.io/docs/components/3bot",
-
-  title_4="3Router",
-  description_4="Smart routers ensure shortest-path connections between nodes and phones with end-to-end encryption. Unlocked after 10,000 pre-orders.",
-  button_text_4="Learn More",
-  button_link_4="https://docs.threefold.io/docs/components/3router/"
-
-)}}
-
-</div>
-
-
-
-
-<!-- section 4 Cta -->
-
-{{ cta(
-    title_1="Build the",
-    title_2="Internet of Tomorrow,",
-    title_3="Today",  
-    button_text_1="Take the Next Step",
-    button_link_1="/signup",
-    button_text_2="Learn More",
-    button_link_2="/action"
-) }}
-
-
-
-
-
-

content/blog/_index.md

@@ -1,18 +0,0 @@
----
-title: "ThreeFold Blog"
-paginate_by: 9
-description: "Dive in to read more of our stories, our past, our present, and our future. We envision a global, community-driven network of interconnected servers and nodes—the grid—that democratizes computing power and storage."
-# paginate_reversed: false
-
-sort_by: "date"
-insert_anchor_links: "left"
-#base_url: "posts"
-#first: "first"
-#last: "last"
-template: "layouts/blog.html"
-page_template: "blogPage.html"
-#transparent: true
-#generate_feed: true
-extra:
-  imgPath: tf.png
----

content/blog/a_million_nodes/index.md

@@ -1,122 +0,0 @@
----
-id: a_million_nodes
-title: A Million ThreeFold Nodes
-image_caption: technology
-description: A digital world with millions of interconnected nodes could change everything – from how our data is owned and used to how we develop AI. Explore a future where control is decentralized, empowering individuals and communities.
-date: 2025-05-02
-taxonomies:
-  people: [sam_taggart]
-  tags: [tech,grid,community]
-  categories: [tech,grid,community]
-extra:
-    imgPath: a_million_nodes.png
----
-
-Imagine a digital world where control isn't dictated by centralized entities but by the collective power of a million interconnected nodes. This vision is more than just a technological advancement – it embodies a paradigm shift towards re-decentralizing the Internet and putting control back into the hands of its users, as it was originally intended to be.
-
-</br>
-
-Today's digital landscape is dominated by a few powerful entities that maintain control through centralized servers, proprietary algorithms, and restrictive data policies. These corporations often collect vast amounts of personal information, limit access to services, and dictate the terms of interaction.
-
-</br>
-
-Further, the majority of the data centers which house and power our digital lives are located in a handful of countries, keeping data, money, jobs, and other benefits inside of these nations and leaving developing regions behind. This leads to slower speeds, higher costs, lower levels of security, and numerous other disadvantages.
-
-</br>
-
-Democratizing digital infrastructure empowers individuals, communities, and organizations to participate in a shared ecosystem, where data ownership and governance are decentralized. People can interact directly with each other, exchanging information and value without intermediaries.
-
-</br>
-
-This foundation also enables a new era of decentralized artificial intelligence – where AI is trained, run, and improved across a global network, transparently, and inclusively.
-
-#### From a Global Perspective
-
-ThreeFold envisions a new internet, an alternative to the internet of today. To make this a reality, the ThreeFold Grid needs to reach a million (or millions of) nodes. A world with a million nodes ...
-
-</br>
-
-- Ensures that connectivity is no longer monopolized by a few large corporations. The Internet is more resilient to large-scale outages, cyber-attacks, and natural disasters. 
-- Empowers people and organizations with control over their data. We are less vulnerable to data breaches and misuse of our data. 
-- Lays the groundwork for decentralized AI, where algorithms are built on ethical, diverse data sets and innovation is open 
-- Democratizes access to computational resources. Lower costs and scalable infrastructure fosters a global environment of innovation and drives economic growth and opportunity. 
-- Means efficient and optimized energy usage, reducing the need for power-hungry data centers, and supporting global efforts to minimize negative impact on our planet. 
-- Bridges the digital divide by introducing reliable Internet access to developing and remote regions, empowering them with access to crucial knowledge and information.
-- Promotes global collaboration, creating a rich environment for cultural exchange and collective problem-solving at scale to tackle the world’s greatest challenges.
-- Preserves cultural heritage, enabling communities from around the world to store their stories, information, and knowledge on infrastructure owned by them.
-
-</br>
-
-A world with a million nodes would reshape industries, facilitate global collaboration, and lay the foundation for a more resilient, inclusive, and sustainable digital future.
-
-</br>
-
-![Image](./a_million_nodes_1.png)
-
-</br>
-
-Let us explore, through the power of story, how this can come alive.
-
-#### Tanzania
-
-Salma, a young entrepreneur coming from an agricultural background in Arusha, runs a small but growing tech company developing mobile apps for local farmers. Her apps collect data from IoT sensors in the fields, helping farmers monitor soil moisture and temperature, optimize water usage, and predict crop yields. Powered by decentralized AI models trained on local data, the insights become increasingly accurate and tailored to the region’s unique conditions.
-
-</br>
-
-The apps run smoothly on locally-deployed decentralized infrastructure – the data processing happens seamlessly on the nearest nodes, ensuring low latency and quick insights for farmers. Further, farmers can be assured of 100% data ownership and sovereignty.
-
-</br>
-
-The farmers form a local cooperative to share data and knowledge. The decentralized cloud ensures that the data remains secure and private, allowing collective insights to be shared in a trusted way. A peer-to-peer marketplace enables farmers to sell their crops directly to purchasers, meaning they can now receive fair value for their work.
-
-#### United States
-
-Emma and Will live in a rural community in central Oklahoma, where tornadoes are a regular occurrence during certain times of the year. Emma is an elementary school teacher and Will works construction. Through a federal assistance program, the community has recently integrated its own decentralized cloud network.
-
-</br>
-
-Emma uses the network to access online resources and collaborate with educators globally. The local clinic offers telehealth services, so the community can access secure and private healthcare without the need to travel long distances.
-
-</br>
-
-Residents use a secure app for community discussions, support networks, local governance decisions, and safety alerts. Sensors across the community monitor weather conditions, while AI models trained on local weather patterns improve the accuracy of predictions, helping residents prepare and respond faster. Data is processed locally on the network, providing early warnings of severe weather events. Alerts are sent directly to residents’ devices. When disaster does strike, part of the decentralized network is able to stay online, supporting rapid communication and coordination and facilitating access to critical information.
-
-#### India
-
-Amit, a software developer based in Bangalore, is working on a new AI-driven application. His development environment is hosted on the decentralized cloud, giving him immense computational power at his fingertips. Training his AI models is faster and more efficient, utilizing powerful GPUs located close to him, increasing performance and lowering costs.
-
-</br>
-
-No longer dependent on centralized cloud, Amit appreciates he can now handle large-scale computations without high costs and the environmental impact associated with traditional data centers.
-
-</br>
-
-Amit not only accelerates his AI model training but also develops a mindset of innovation without boundaries. Empowered by seamless scalability and reduced operational costs, Amit channels his energy into refining algorithms that promise to redefine healthcare diagnostics. This newfound agility allows him to iterate rapidly, collaborate globally, and pioneer solutions that bridge the gap between technology and societal impact.
-
-#### Brazil
-
-In São Paulo, Rosina leads a team of environmental scientists focused on preserving the Amazon rainforest. Their research involves extensive data collection from remote sensors scattered across vast and often inaccessible regions of the rainforest. The data, including temperature, humidity, and biodiversity indicators, is crucial for monitoring climate change impacts and guiding conservation efforts.
-
-</br>
-
-Decentralized nodes located strategically across the rainforest process sensor data in real-time. Data collected from the rainforest remains secure and under local ownership. Local indigenous communities, equipped with smartphones, actively participate in data collection and monitoring (and use the decentralized network for the preservation of local culture). The insights derived from the program drive the training of decentralized AI algorithms, contributing to global climate research and advocacy efforts.
-
-#### A World with a Million Nodes is Possible
-
-This vision of a world with a million nodes connected to the ThreeFold Grid shows how technology can bridge gaps, enhance security, and foster innovation on a global scale. Each node plays a crucial role in building a resilient, inclusive, and efficient digital infrastructure for everyone, everywhere.
-
-</br>
-
-From AI development to sustainable farming, digital education to climate science and disaster response, decentralized infrastructure is transforming how people connect and create.
-
-</br>
-
-For years, the ThreeFold team and community have been quietly building the foundation. The technology is proven. The network is live. And the world needs what we have been building.
-
-</br>
-
-The grid today is a clear collective demonstration that all of this is possible. Scaling to a million nodes is an ambitious goal – but it’s also an invitation. An invitation to co-create a digital world where power is distributed, opportunity is shared, and progress belongs to everyone.
-
-</br>
-
-This is more than infrastructure. It’s a movement. One node at a time, we’re building the Internet – and the intelligence – that the world truly needs.

content/blog/africa_regen_summit_ii/index.md

@@ -1,37 +0,0 @@
----
-id: africa_regen_summit_ii
-title: "Reflecting on Africa Regenerative Futures Summits : Shaping a better digital future in Africa"
-image_caption: Africa Regen II
-description: In 2023, we had the pleasure of hosting two summits in Zanzibar – Read about the key outcomes. 
-date: 2023-11-21
-taxonomies:
-  people: [sam_taggart]
-  tags: [community, event, collaboration, why]
-  categories: [community, event, collaboration, why]
-extra:
-    imgPath: africa_future_summit1.png
----
-
-In 2023, we had the pleasure of hosting two summits in Zanzibar – one in July and another in [November](https://www.threefold.io/newsroom/africa-regen-ii/), named the Africa Regenerative Future Summit. These events brought together leading innovators and investors committed to advancing human flourishing, with a specific emphasis on science and technology shaping the trajectory of Africa's future.
-
-<br>
-
-During the inaugural summit in July, Zanzibar's President, Dr. Hussein Mwinyi, honored us with his presence. In a formal declaration, he publicly expressed the government's dedication to establishing a digital free zone, a locally-owned Internet infrastructure, and an incubator to support young local innovators – all in collaboration with ThreeFold – and their commitment to the ICT sector as a whole.
-
-<br>
-
-The second summit saw the birth of Dunia Yetu (meaning "Our World" in Swahili), a collaborative movement forged in partnership with a cohort of tech developers and innovators from Dar Es Salaam. This initiative is driven by a shared commitment to reshape the digital landscape in Tanzania and Africa. Its goals include empowering coders, fostering economic development, and constructing a sovereign, autonomous digital ecosystem for a more promising digital future. 
-
-<br>
-
-Looking ahead to 2024, our vision includes a continued series of gatherings focused on OurWorld, ThreeFold, and other projects and individuals prioritizing a planet-first, people-first approach to support Tanzania and the broader African continent.
-
-<br>
-
-More information: 
-
-<br>
-
-- **Summit I:** Read [Zanzibar Seeks to Become a Digital FreeZone](https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/tanzania/zanzibar/zanzibar-seeks-to-become-digital-freezone--4316150) (via The Citizen) and [Mwinyi Commits to Improvement of Digital Spaces](https://dailynews.co.tz/mwinyi-commits-to-improvement-of-digital-spaces/) (via Daily News Tanzania) for further details.
-- **Summit II:** Learn more about [Dunia Yetu](https://www.threefold.io/newsroom/duniayetulaunchdar/) 
-- **Dunia Yetu:** Read [Sovereign Internet - A game changer for Tanzania](https://www.thecitizen.co.tz/tanzania/news/national/sovereign-internet-a-game-changer-to-tanzania-startups-ecosystem-growth-449806) (via The Citizen)

content/blog/an_intro_to_the_threefold_grid/index.md

@@ -1,85 +0,0 @@
----
-id: an_intro_to_the_threefold_grid
-title: "Building a New Internet From the Ground Up – Part 1: Introduction"
-image_caption: The ThreeFold Grid Peer-to-Peer Technology
-description: The first episode in an approachable series on the inner workings of the ThreeFold Grid.
-date: 2021-07-19
-taxonomies:
-  people: [scott_yeager]
-  tags: [grid, cloud, tech]
-  categories: [grid, cloud, tech]
-extra:
-    imgPath: building_a_new_internet_1_1.png
----
-
-## An Intro to the ThreeFold Grid
-
-If you are a farmer or member of the ThreeFold community, you may be wondering about the capacity provided by the ThreeFold Grid and how it's relevant to individuals and businesses who currently rely on centralized corporate clouds. This can be hard to imagine, because the back end infrastructure that makes all of our apps and services tick is generally invisible to us. 
-
-<br>
-
-This piece will be the first in a series where I'll be working to understand what the technical components are and how ThreeFold provides an alternative with distinct benefits for individuals, businesses, and for the planet as a whole. But don't worry, we'll start from the ground level and build up understanding in a way that's accessible to everyone.
-
-## Infrastructure for a New Internet
-
-So, what is the internet? In short, it is a network of interconnected devices that facilitates communication and commerce. These devices include our mobile phones and personal computers, but also the servers that store and process data to provide the end experiences we enjoy. Currently the vast majority of these servers live in massive data centers controlled by a handful of corporations. ThreeFold is changing this, by allowing anyone to connect computational and storage capacity to an open network that is available for all to use, known as the ThreeFold Grid. Our farmers do include some data centers operating on a smaller scale than major cloud providers, and also many individuals connecting nodes at their home or office all over the world.
-
-<br>
-
-On the ThreeFold Grid, servers are known as 3Nodes. A 3Node can be pretty much any modern computer system, offering capacity by running the Zero OS operating system. This is a major distinguishing factor, both from the traditional cloud computing world and also from other projects working to create decentralized networks in this space. 
-
-## The OS for a Next Generation Cloud
-
-By starting from the operating system level, ThreeFold is able to provide a network with much stronger security and greater efficiency than anything that came before. Zero OS includes a collection of components, known as "primitives", which provide developers with everything they need. These primitives can be used to migrate existing applications from the legacy cloud and also to create new solutions that leverage the Grid’s capacity in unique ways.
-
-<br>
-
-We're all familiar with operating systems like Windows and MacOS that provide an interface to applications on our personal computers. The OS interacts with the underlying hardware to expose its capabilities in a way that's useful for both the software it hosts and also the humans who utilize it. For example, when you launch an app on your phone, it is the OS that's responsible for connecting it to data networks and providing access to peripherals like cameras or microphones. Things are a little different in the world of servers, where rather than through direct interactions, users benefit through the services provided to the applications we use.
-
-<br>
-
-To extend the example, when you open a messaging app it will connect to a server somewhere to check for new messages and relay any messages you are sending to the recipient. Here we can see a central issue that has inspired the design of ThreeFold’s technology: when our messages pass through servers controlled by others, it creates an open door for surveillance of all kinds.
-
-<br>
-
-ThreeFold farmers, on the other hand, have no administrative access to their nodes. Furthermore, each component offered by the ThreeFold Grid is built with the intention of allowing for secure and private storage, processing, and transmission of information. Of course, sharing is absolutely possible, but only when the creator of data or content chooses for it to happen.
-
-## Three Essential Resources
-
-In the world of cloud computing, we speak of three basic resources provided by servers: compute, storage, and network. The ThreeFold Grid provides various primitives in each of these     categories, to fulfill all the same needs served by centralized cloud providers. While our offerings have the special properties discussed above, they are also highly compatible with the most popular tools and protocols currently used in the industry. This makes it relatively simple to migrate the back end applications, also known as "workloads", that provide a kind of connective tissue for all of the digital experiences we enjoy on a daily basis.
-
-<br>
-
-Workloads are pieces of software that provide services. If you upload a file to some cloud storage service, there could be a number of individual workloads orchestrated together in order to ensure the data you want to save is successfully transmitted to and stored in the back end system. We can understand the need for each kind of capacity by looking at the journey that your file might take in such a scenario. Starting on your device, a network connection, some processing, and finally storage capacity are all involved in providing the conditions that allow you to retrieve that file later.
-
-## Network
-
-Networking takes place over cellular connections, wifi, and wired internet lines to move data from one place to another. For our purposes here, those details aren't so important—we'll focus on what happens once communication is completed by whatever means. 
-
-<br>
-
-When you connect to the cloud storage service, there are network workloads that transmit your data to the appropriate services that process and store it. This might consist of some routing and also authentication that ensures that you and only you access the files that are associated with your account. On the Grid, we provide primitives for secure peer to peer communication and also for allowing public access to back end services.
-
-## Compute
-
-Compute is what happens with data once it reaches its destination. Computers are mostly just fancy adding machines that take numbers and turn them into other numbers according to a set of specifications, which we call software. In our example, the compute step might involve compressing the information so it takes up less space and also deriving some useful statistics like the file's original size. 
-
-<br>
-
-Of course, there are many details we're glossing over here, and the compute resources are ultimately responsible for providing much of our end user experience and the interactivity of the apps we utilize. 3Nodes offer a compute environment that natively runs the vast majority of workloads in use today. 
-
-## Storage
-
-Storage, of course, is the disk space where data resides. It can be a little strange to think about, actually, that all of the information you've stored online actually has at least one physical location where it exists as many small electrical charges. On the Grid, application developers can access the disks of nodes directly, in a way that's optimized for energy efficiency. 
-
-<br>
-
-We also have more advanced storage solutions that offer unparalleled security and low overhead redundancy, giving users the best possible guarantee that only they have access to their data and that it will actually be there when they go to retrieve it.
-
-## Looking Forward
-
-Taken together, network, storage, and compute are the raw elements that give life to the internet we know and love. On the ThreeFold Grid, these elements are expressed in a way that's both familiar for developers but also pushes the limits of what is possible in terms of technical evolution. 
-
-<br>
-
-Thanks so much for joining me on this introductory overview of what the Grid provides. Please join me next time for a deeper dive on some of what we've covered and more specifics about how ThreeFold technology represents a quantum leap for cloud computing.

content/blog/back_to_the_future/index.md

@@ -1,123 +0,0 @@
----
-id: back_to_the_future
-title: "Back to the Future: How ThreeFold Revives the Original P2P Web Dream"
-image_caption: Back to the future
-description: The internet was meant to empower, not control. ThreeFold is bringing the original peer-to-peer vision back to life, decentralized, open, and owned by all.
-date: 2025-06-03
-taxonomies:
-  people: [raj_mitra]
-  tags: [tech,grid,community]
-  categories: [tech,grid,community]
-extra:
-    imgPath: back_to_the_future.png
----
-
-In 1989, Tim Berners-Lee envisioned a World Wide Web where people everywhere could create, access, and share knowledge freely. It was a bold and beautiful idea: an open, decentralized platform where humanity could collaborate. Born in the halls of CERN and rooted in academia and scientific generosity, the early web was peer-to-peer in spirit and architecture. But somewhere along the way, we lost the plot.
-
-<br/>
-
-Today, the internet is dominated by a handful of corporations. It’s centralized, surveilled, and algorithmically manipulated. The original promise of the web, a tool for empowerment, has been rewritten into one of control.
-
-<br/>
-
-But not everyone has given up on the dream.
-
-#### A Different Internet Is Possible
-*We need to restore the internet to its original intent,” says Kristof De Spiegeleer, founder of [ThreeFold](https://threefold.io), in a recent interview at ETHDenver. “It was much more peer-to-peer. People could express whatever they wanted. We were no longer products. That’s what we wanted to bring back.*
-
-<br/>
-
-Kristof’s perspective isn’t nostalgic. At ThreeFold, some of our team has been building internet infrastructure since the early days, when the web still felt like a community garden rather than a corporate mall. In more recent years, we have been radically reimagining the plumbing of the web. And we’re doing it from the ground up.
-
-#### From CERN to Surveillance Capitalism
-To understand what’s at stake, it helps to go back to the beginning.
-
-<br/>
-
-The first ever website, [info.cern.ch](http://info.cern.ch), was hosted on a NeXT computer in a physics lab in Switzerland. The web was conceived as a universal publishing system for scientists. It used open standards, interoperable protocols, and encouraged contribution. There were no paywalls. No targeted ads. No "walled gardens."
-
-<br/>
-
-All that changed in the 2000s. Google, Facebook, Amazon, and others turned the web into a data-mining operation. 
-
-<br/>
-
-In exchange for "free" services, users unknowingly gave up control over their digital selves. What started as a peer-to-peer web became a hub-and-spoke model, where all roads led through Silicon Valley.
-
-<br/>
-
-Today, more than 80% of online content is machine-generated. Most of the internet’s infrastructure is owned by a few centralized companies. Many countries don’t even control their own digital backbones.
-
-<br/>
-
-This was not at all the vision that the early pioneers had.
-
-<br/>
-
-**Tim Berners-Lee:**
-
-<br/>
-
-*“The Web is more a social creation than a technical one. I designed it for a social effect—to help people work together—and not as a technical toy.”*
-
-<br/>
-
-**Marc Andreessen (Netscape co-founder):**
-
-<br/>
-
-*“We thought we were building a publishing platform. Instead, we built the rails for an entirely new economy.”*
-
-<br/>
-
-**Jaron Lanier (early VR pioneer and digital ethicist):**
-
-<br/>
-
-*“The original idea of the Internet was that it would decentralize power... Now it's become the opposite.”*
-
-
-#### Rebuilding the Plumbing
-This is where ThreeFold comes in as a decentralized, peer-owned infrastructure layer. Kristof explains it plainly: “We need storage, we need compute, we need GPUs, and we need to connect these things outside of the current web monopolies.”
-
-<br/>
-
-ThreeFold makes it simple for anyone to contribute to this new internet by running a node. Whether you're a developer, a farmer, or just someone with an unused computer, you can dedicate a machine to the ThreeFold Grid and become part of a growing decentralized network.
-
-#### More Than Decentralization
-Attempts to “decentralize the web” are nothing new. But most failed because they tried to rebuild the application layer without fixing the foundation. ThreeFold flips that script. It starts with the physical hardware, real nodes owned by real people, and builds upward.
-
-<br/>
-
-Its architecture is designed for resilience. It doesn’t rely on AWS or Google Cloud. It doesn’t store your data in one vulnerable place. It doesn’t treat you like a product.
-
-<br/>
-
-And perhaps most importantly, it invites participation. Anyone can build a node, join the network, and help create something bigger than themselves.
-
-#### Back to the Future?
-What ThreeFold is essentially doing is reclamation.
-
-<br/>
-
-We are reclaiming the peer-to-peer ethos of the early internet.
-
-<br/>
-
-We are reclaiming the right to compute, connect, and create without gatekeepers.
-
-<br/>
-
-We are reclaiming agency in a digital world that’s increasingly extractive.
-
-<br/>
-
-As Kristof puts it: “No is simply not an option. This will be done.”
-
-<br/>
-
-For those who still believe the internet can be more than a marketplace of user data, for those who remember what it was meant to be, ThreeFold might just be the future we were promised.
-
-<br/>
-
-And this time, we all get to build it.

content/blog/beyond_quick_fixes/index.md

@@ -1,71 +0,0 @@
----
-id: beyond_quick_fixes
-title: Beyond Quick Fixes - An Internet for Equality, Security, and Resilience
-image_caption: technology
-description: The Internet faces issues like limited access, security risks, and high energy use. We need real change with decentralized, secure systems that empower communities and create a fairer digital world.
-date: 2024-10-30
-taxonomies:
-  people: [bernadette_amanda_caster]
-  tags: [tech,grid,community]
-  categories: [tech,grid,community]
-extra:
-    imgPath: beyond_quick_fixes1.png
----
-
-The Internet is a crucial part of our daily lives, yet it faces many challenges. To name a few, about half of the global population doesn’t have fair or reliable access, data privacy, and cybersecurity threats are greater than ever before, and the current model is unsustainable for our planet. Despite advancements in technology, the Internet has been stuck in a cycle of quick fixes and patchwork solutions, unable to address these fundamental issues truly.
-
-<br/>
-
-To secure an Internet that is equitable, sustainable, and resilient for all, we need a complete transformation – one that decentralizes control, reduces environmental impact, and empowers people and communities to take ownership of the digital world.
-
-#### A System Held Together by Temporary Fixes
-The current Internet relies on "quick fixes" that offer temporary relief but fail to address deeper systemic problems. Security tools like firewalls and antivirus software only guard against known threats and require constant updates. Content delivery networks and bandwidth boosts improve performance but don't fix the limitations of the core infrastructure. Even regulations like GDPR protect privacy, but they don’t fundamentally change how data is managed or secured. Meanwhile, advances like 5G and fiber optics speed up connectivity but don’t solve the root issue of centralization.
-
-#### Centralization at the Root of Many Issues
-Centralization is at the heart of many persistent issues, such as rising cybersecurity threats. Concentrating data in a few locations increases vulnerabilities, leading to more frequent data breaches and malicious attacks. Big tech companies keep building energy-hungry data centers to meet growing demand, but these are unsustainable and expensive to build.
-
-<br/>
-
-While energy-efficient hardware is coming to market, it does little to solve these underlying inefficiencies. The deeper problem lies in the centralization of the Internet – a model that concentrates power in the hands of the few. Cloud services like AWS and Google Cloud help businesses scale but can be expensive, complex, and inaccessible to smaller businesses and underserved communities.
-
-<br/>
-
-At the same time, new technologies like the Internet of Things (IoT) and augmented and virtual reality (AR/VR) demand fast data processing at the edge. Still, centralized cloud platforms are too slow and inefficient to meet their needs.
-
-#### A Long-Term Cure: ThreeFold’s Solution
-To truly fix a system as broken as the current Internet, we need more than temporary solutions – we need a complete transformation that attacks the problem at the root.
-
-<br/>
-
-**Autonomous Infrastructure**
-
-<br/>
-
-One of the solutions to the current Internet crisis is a shift toward autonomous infrastructure networks and data centers that can operate independently, with minimal energy consumption and maximum efficiency. ThreeFold's decentralized network uses small, autonomous nodes that can be distributed globally. This infrastructure lowers costs, increases reliability, and improves security while addressing the environmental issues tied to the centralized model. Through the ThreeFold Grid, the project is already providing a foundation for the sustainable Internet of the future.
-
-<br/>
-
-**Quantum-Safe Systems**
-
-<br/>
-
-With quantum computing on the horizon, how we secure our Internet infrastructure must evolve. The current Internet isn’t prepared for the threats that quantum computing could pose. ThreeFold recognizes this need and is already creating quantum-safe storage and network systems that protect sensitive information against future threats. This ensures a more resilient Internet that can stand up to tomorrow’s challenges.
-
-<br/>
-
-**Decentralization for Equality**
-
-<br/>
-
-Decentralization can only resolve the imbalance caused by today’s centralized cloud giants. By enabling anyone to host their own infrastructure, ThreeFold’s network levels the playing field and distributes power and opportunity more fairly across the globe. In ThreeFold’s vision, communities, businesses, and individuals can become Internet farmers, contributing to the global network and benefiting from it equally.
-#### Moving Beyond Band-Aid Solutions: Building a Better Internet
-The current Internet is broken, and temporary fixes won’t solve the underlying issues. What’s needed is a complete transformation that returns control to the people, reduces environmental impact, and creates a more equitable, accessible digital economy. We must move beyond the the quick fixes and embrace an Internet that is decentralized, sustainable, and secure for all.
-
-<br/>
-
-ThreeFold is leading the charge by creating an Internet infrastructure that empowers individuals and communities, reduces energy consumption, and fosters innovation. The future of the Internet must reflect the principles of fairness, equality, and sustainability.
-
-<br/>
-
-It’s time to fix the Internet with ThreeFold. We’re already on the path toward a better, more inclusive digital future.
-

content/blog/building_a_new_internet_from_the_ground_up/index.md

@@ -1,60 +0,0 @@
----
-id: building_a_new_internet_from_the_ground_up_pt2
-title: "Building a New Internet From the Ground Up – Part 2: Storage"
-image_caption: The ThreeFold Grid Peer-to-Peer Technology
-description: Part two of an approachable series on the inner workings of the ThreeFold Grid. This time, storage
-date: 2021-07-28
-taxonomies:
-  people: [scott_yeager]
-  tags: [grid, cloud, tech]
-  categories: [grid, cloud, tech]
-extra:
-    imgPath: building_a_new_internet_2_1.png
----
-
-Welcome back for the second part of this introductory series on ThreeFold Grid technology. [Last time](https://threefold.io/blog/an_intro_to_the_threefold_grid/) we took a high level view of all that the Grid offers. This time, we'll be zooming in on storage, covering the low level components and how they can provide a familiar experience like the cloud "drives" and "boxes" we use today.
-<br/>
-<br/>
-The ThreeFold Grid offers several different storage primitives that can be combined in various ways to meet the needs of developers and end users of Grid capacity. Ultimately, all storage services are a way of presenting the underlying hardware to software workloads in various ways, according to the desired features. ThreeFold has created a few unique storage offerings, providing distinct benefits over legacy cloud infrastructure. From the start, every component has been designed for optimal efficiency and they work together to offer an unprecedented level of security.
-<br/>
-<br/>
-Our most basic storage primitive is a "volume", which simply offers some disk space to an application in a generic way. We'll focus more on the innovative solutions that are built on the Zero Database, or Zdb. These are compatible with existing use cases but also represent a quantum leap forward for privacy and security. They are called Zdbfs, Zstor, and QSFS. Let's take a look at each component and how they work together to provide a complete set of tools for developers building on the Grid. We'll also see why this matters to end users of services that are hosted on the Grid.
-
-## Zdb
-
-Zdb is a low level offering that implements with a subset of features from the popular Redis protocol. It is a key-value store, which means that information is indexed like a dictionary. Each "word" in the database is associated with a "definition" or piece of data. Zdb is super fast and efficient, along with operating in an "append only" manner. This means that all new data is added to empty space following the end of existing data, never overwritten. It's like writing in pen on paper without leaving any white space.
-<br/>
-<br/>
-Append only has many advantages, including extending the life of certain hardware and offering archiving features out of the box. The disadvantage, of course, is that old data is retained even when no longer needed. However, this can be addressed by periodically "compacting" the data, to remove what's no longer needed and restructure what remains with the same level of efficiency. We use Zdb as a base layer for more complex storage implementations that benefit from these features.
-
-## Zdbfs
-
-While Zdb has all of those neat properties, it requires that applications utilize a specific database interface. To expand its capabilities, we have the Zdb Filesystem. With Zdbfs, the back end Zdb is exposed through the most common interface used for storing and retrieving data: a filesystem. This is the same format we're all familiar with from the file explorers on our computers. When running Zdbfs, a new "folder" appears on the system, allowing reading and writing to the connected Zdb without any concern for the underlying database. With Zdbfs, nearly all existing tools for working with data can be plugged in to and benefit from the advantages of Zdb.
-
-## Zstor
-
-So far, we've been discussing solutions that utilize storage space on a single node only. While this offers flexibility for developers with a variety of needs, it is also limited in the sense that the failure of a single node would result in the loss of all data. With that in mind, we offer the Zstor solution for spreading data across multiple nodes in a way that provides both resilience against failures and unprecedented security.
-<br/>
-<br/>
-Zstor takes a single file as input, to be stored among a number of nodes as specified in its configuration. The system is flexible and able to cater to different needs for performance, redundancy, and geographical distribution. Understanding what happens behind the scenes requires a little math, but I'll provide as simple an explanation as I can. Zstor has a very unique property: it does not actually upload any of the user's data to the back end nodes, but it is able to reconstruct the data later based on the descriptive information that is stored.
-
-### The magic of erasure encoding
-
-Sounds like magic? Well, let's explore briefly how this is possible. Zstor relies on a technology known as erasure encoding, which was originally designed to protect data against errors that sometimes occur in the normal operation of computer hardware. Rather than simply making copies of the data as backups, a clever scheme is used to efficiently offer the same benefit. With basic redundancy, four extra copies would be needed to accommodate four failures without a loss of data. Erasure encoding can accomplish the same failure tolerance using less than half the space needed for the original data.
-<br/>
-<br/>
-While erasure encoding can be implemented by storing the data itself along with some extra data known as "parity", it can also be implemented without storing the original data at all. As a simplified example, let's say that we want to store the number 13. First, we take each digit individually, 1 and 3. Next, we calculate 1 + 3 = 4 and 3 - 1 = 2. By storing 4 and 2, along with the instructions to reverse these calculations, we have everything needed to get back to 13. If we add one more equation, say 1 - 3 = -2, we can restore the original data using any two of the numbers we've computed.
-<br/>
-<br/>
-Each of our values would be stored on separate nodes, while the instructions to recombine them would be stored in yet another location. If an attacker were to compromise one of these nodes, they would only have a number that's meaningless without the other elements. If a single node fails, the original data can be restored using the remaining nodes, and we can add a new node to bring us back to our desired state. By tuning these values, additional security or redundancy can be achieved. We might decide that we want 9 of 10 values to be present for reconstruction, representing a high level of security. Alternatively, a 2 of 10 arrangement would provide high redundancy, tolerating the failure of 8 nodes.
-
-## Quantum Safe Filesystem
-
-With all of these components working together, we have ThreeFold's flagship storage solution, the Quantum Safe Filesystem or QSFS. It uses Zstor to backup data written to a Zdbfs. This provides the convenient and highly compatible filesystem interface along with the exceptional security and redundancy benefits of Zstor. We call it quantum safe, because even an attacker with a quantum computer would not be able to decode users' data, if they managed to hack into one of the back end nodes—already an extraordinary feat given the exceptional security of Zero OS.
-
-## Bringing it home
-
-So, we've toured a good bit of technology which might be feeling a bit abstract at this point. Bringing this home, our front end experience with these technologies can feel no different than any of the "drives" and "boxes" we use to store our files in the cloud. In fact, ThreeFold has already developed a prototype file browser based on QSFS which has many cool features like editing documents and viewing media directly in the web interface. It's one piece of a full suite of solutions we're excited to showcase and invite the community to test soon.
-<br/>
-<br/>
-I hope you found this piece informative and approachable. Thanks for joining me to learn and explore the wonderful world of ThreeFold technology. We'll cover more aspects of what makes it all tick in future parts of this series. Do you have questions or feel like chatting about what's possible with ThreeFold's technology? We'd love to hear from you on [our forum](https://forum.threefold.io) or in [our Telegram group](https://t.me/threefold).

content/blog/building_a_new_internet_from_the_ground_up_3/index.md

@@ -1,83 +0,0 @@
----
-id: building_a_new_internet_from_the_ground_up_3
-title: "Building a New Internet From the Ground Up – Part 3: Compute"
-image_caption: The ThreeFold Grid Peer-to-Peer Technology
-description: Part three of an approachable series on the inner workings of the ThreeFold Grid. This time, we're exploring compute.
-date: 2021-10-04
-taxonomies:
-  people: [scott_yeager]
-  tags: [grid, cloud, tech]
-  categories: [grid, cloud, tech]
-extra:
-    imgPath: building_a_new_internet_3_1.png
----
-
-*Welcome back for another installment of our accessible series on ThreeFold Grid technology. We are working through the three major     categories that make up cloud infrastructure: storage, compute, and network. This time, we'll be focusing on compute.*
-
-## What is compute?
-
-While [storage](https://threefold.io/blog/building_a_new_internet_from_the_ground_up_pt2/) and network are fairly intuitive concepts – where data lives and how it gets around – compute is about the more mysterious realm of data processing and ultimately computer programming. Don't worry though, you don't need any technical abilities to gain a deeper understanding of what's happening behind the scenes when we use apps or interact with web sites.
-
-<br/>
-
-As mentioned in the [first part](https://threefold.io/blog/an_intro_to_the_threefold_grid/) of this series, compute is basically what happens with data once it reaches its destination. Compute gives data relevance, by processing it according to the instructions provided by developers in their source code. When talking about what the [ThreeFold Grid](https://threefold.io/grid) offers in terms of compute, it's mostly about how the code that developers produce gets executed in order to provide the services we enjoy. 
-
-<br/>
-
-With ThreeFold, this actually happens for the most part using the same tools and systems provided by traditional cloud services, meaning that it's highly compatible with existing cloud applications. What really makes the Grid different is that it's been designed to provide a level of efficiency and security that simply isn't possible without starting "from the ground up". Before we get into specifics of compute offerings built into ThreeFold's [Zero-OS](https://threefold.io/how-it-works/zero-os), let's briefly explore what computing is.
-
-## Playing with zeroes and ones
-
-Everything a computer's central processing unit does is based on a limited set of instructions that includes basic mathematical functions, logical operations, and ways to control the flow of a program. At their core, computers are really just automated adding machines that execute specified operations on whatever input they receive. It may be hard to believe that simple math creates all of the vibrant digital experience we enjoy, but at a certain low level, that's the truth.
-
-<br/>
-
-Take a messaging app as an example. Within a computer, all of the text, emojis, and images we see are represented by numbers. When we search for some text within a chat, matches are determined by checking if the numbers corresponding to the words we typed are equal to some numbers corresponding to words that appear in the chat history. This information is then converted into the list of results we see on screen.
-
-<br/>
-
-In this context, compute is mostly responsible for organizing all of our messages based on the individual or group we were talking with, the time that the message happened, and whether or not we've opened it yet. Typically, a messaging app stores data both on our local devices and on a back end in the cloud. Compute is also how the service decides to copy messages you sent on one device to other devices where you have the same app installed.
-
-<br/>
-
-Here is an important distinction about how the ThreeFold Grid operates. In a traditional cloud environment, it is impossible to know for sure what is happening on the backend, even if you are the one running the service. The administrative access retained by the cloud provider can be used for surveillance and tampering that can be very difficult or impossible to detect. 
-
-<br/>
-
-Zero OS offers a unique assurance that no one can abuse the Grid in this way, because it operates autonomously with no facilities provided for human intervention. In order to utilize compute capacity on the Grid, individuals and organizations deploy their choice of several "primitives," or basic components, that provide an environment for code to be executed and create the magic we experience as online applications.
-
-## ThreeFold Compute Primitives
-
-Since we're getting a bit into the technical weeds here, we'll just take a brief look at each primitive and what makes it special.
-
-### Zmachine
-
-Zmachine is a lightweight virtual machine (VM) implementation that's been developed in a uniquely efficient way by ThreeFold. VMs are essentially computers within computers, allowing multiple operating systems to run on a single physical system. A common example is running the Windows operating system on a Mac that's already running MacOS. 
-
-<br/>
-
-In the cloud world, virtual machines are a classic way to manage complex deployments with flexibility and resilience – by packaging different components into different VMs that can be run side by side and moved between different physical servers with ease. While VMs have been replaced in many cases with the new container paradigm, which we'll cover next, they are still widely used and provide a simpler solution than containers that's sufficient for many use cases.
-
-### Flist
-
-The [Flist](https://threefold.io/how-it-works/zflist)  is a next generation container format which extends the industry standard Docker container concept in an efficient and secure way. It is supported directly at the operating system level on Zero OS, and in its latest version on ThreeFold Grid 3.0, provides a unique advantage over traditional containers via the use of mini virtual machines.
-
-<br/>
-
-Containers provide greater efficiency and flexibility than VMs, by sharing parts of the host operating system between containers rather than duplicating the full operating system for each component. This, however, means that containers typically come with less of an assurance that different workloads and their data remain isolated from each other. By employing mini VMs, the Flist concept provides better isolation than traditional container systems while retaining the advantages that containers offer over full VMs.
-
-### Kubernetes
-
-Containers usually represent small parts of a full solution, which are created, interconnected, and destroyed on an ongoing basis. Kubernetes is the industry standard container orchestration system, and it's used to manage many of the largest and most complex cloud deployments. Kubernetes solutions are defined through configuration files that specify the types of containers, how updates are handled, and the network architecture both between containers and with the outside world.
-
-<br/>
-
-Multiple physical servers or VMs are typically used for a Kubernetes "cluster" which provides redundancy and scalability. The ThreeFold Grid provides a lightweight Kubernetes VM that can be used to create clusters according to specific needs. Kubernetes users can, for the most part, simply bring their existing configuration files and recreate their deployments on a Grid based cluster seamlessly.
-
-## Wrapping up
-
-Taken together, the compute primitives offer a comprehensive alternative to existing cloud compute providers. Users of Docker, Kubernetes, and virtual machines can bring their deployments to the Grid with a minimal amount of migration effort. This is distinct from other decentralized cloud projects, which either offer a single solution like Kubernetes or a completely new environment that developers must adapt their code to run within.
-
-<br/>
-
-Better yet, each compute offering on the ThreeFold Grid benefits from the unique efficiency and security features of Zero OS, as well as the unique aspects of the primitives themselves. Thanks again for joining me on this journey into the wonderful world of ThreeFold technology. In the next episode, we'll cover the last element of the cloud infrastructure triad: network.

content/blog/building_a_new_internet_from_the_ground_up_4/index.md

@@ -1,95 +0,0 @@
----
-id: building_a_new_internet_from_the_ground_up_4
-title: "Building a New Internet From the Ground Up – Part 4: Network"
-image_caption: The ThreeFold Grid Peer-to-Peer Technology
-description: We're (finally) back with part 4, looking at the networking aspects of the ThreeFold Grid.
-date: 2022-02-03
-taxonomies:
-  people: [scott_yeager]
-  tags: [decentralization, grid, cloud, tech]
-  categories: [decentralization, grid, cloud, tech]
-extra:
-    imgPath: building_a_new_internet_4_1.png
----
-
-After introducing the ThreeFold Grid in [part one](https://threefold.io/blog/an_intro_to_the_threefold_grid/) and diving deep into [storage](https://threefold.io/blog/building_a_new_internet_from_the_ground_up_pt2/) and [compute](https://threefold.io/blog/building_a_new_internet_from_the_ground_up_3/), we’re back with part 4 to look at the networking aspects of the ThreeFold Grid.
-
-<br/>
-
-Computer networking is a rather complex phenomenon with a thankfully intuitive outcome: you send messages from one place to another. We all understand that our digital devices become a lot less interesting when they are not connected to the Internet. However, networking is not just Internet, and when it comes to building a new Internet, it's important to understand what that means.
-
-<br/>
-
-The existing Internet can be defined as a global set of networks and protocols that enable us to do things like load web pages and use apps that rely on external data. It depends on lots of underlying infrastructure, including fiber optic cables running along the ocean floor, our home routers and their connection to an Internet service provider (ISP), lots of cell service towers, and an increasing number of satellites. All of that makes the Internet possible, and it's still required for a new Internet to function.
-
-<br/>
-
-[ThreeFold](https://library.threefold.me/info/threefold#/) uses and builds new protocols to create a network that is interoperable with the existing Internet. These include private overlay networks, the [Planetary Network](https://forum.threefold.io/t/how-our-planetary-network-works/1210) based on Yggdrasil, and various interfaces to the public Internet. Let's see how they work.
-
-## Private overlay networks
-
-Every deployment on the [ThreeFold Grid](https://library.threefold.me/info/threefold#/threefold__tfgrid_primitives?id=network-uses-nu) belongs to a network, which is one of the Grid primitives. These networks allow data to be transmitted between workloads in a private and secure manner. They are called overlay networks because they pass traffic over some underlying network. That could be within a single node or between nodes on infrastructure provided by a farmer. The Grid uses software called WireGuard for this purpose, a simple, fast, and secure option among its alternatives.
-
-<br/>
-
-By means of encryption, the traffic on a private overlay network is unreadable to any other device on that network. Likewise, the workloads within the private network have no visibility of the underlying network. Individuals who deploy workloads can access their networks over a secure tunnel, assuming that one of the nodes in the network is reachable from the public Internet. This is suitable for workload administration and some private applications. For public services and peer-to-peer communication, the ThreeFold Grid provides other solutions.
-
-## Planetary Network
-
-The [Planetary Network](https://library.threefold.me/info/manual/#/technology/threefold__planetary_network?id=planetary-network) is an implementation of the [Yggdrasil Network](https://yggdrasil-network.github.io/about.html), which is a next generation approach to network routing. It is a peer-to-peer solution where all traffic is encrypted and takes the shortest path to its destination. These features make it highly compatible with the ethos and goals of the ThreeFold Grid: privacy, security, and efficiency. The design also allows nodes, workloads, and users to communicate freely without relying on centralized intermediaries.
-
-<br/>
-
-Many [ThreeFold Farmers](https://library.threefold.me/info/threefold#/tfgrid/farming/threefold__farming_intro?id=threefold-farming) connect their nodes to a home router which blocks all inbound traffic by default. This is a sensible feature that doesn't interfere with most Internet usage (enthusiasts who want to host their own website or a gaming server might bypass this, for example). However, nodes on the Grid need to be reachable, especially in order to receive workload definitions from deployers.
-
-<br/>
-
-The Planetary Network solves this by accepting inbound traffic through an outbound connection to a publicly accessible peer. You can think of this like making a call to an operator and then waiting for another call to be routed to you on that line. Even if your phone is set to block all incoming calls, someone can still reach you if they can reach the operator.
-
-<br/>
-
-This also provides a way for workloads to communicate with one another and be reachable by users. Anyone can enable the Planetary Network on their own device to access sites and services in a very [secure and private](https://forum.threefold.io/t/critical-security-updates-for-apple-and-google-underline-need-for-secure-it-ecosystem/1271) way. While the ThreeFold Grid is designed to be fully interoperable with the existing Internet, the Planetary Network provides an alternative which can sit side by side in a seamless way.
-
-### Reliable Message Bus
-
-Using the Planetary Network, nodes and Grid users can send messages over the [Reliable Message Bus](https://library.threefold.me/info/threefold#/manual__rmd). Notably, it is used for the delivery of workload definitions as mentioned earlier. [Zero-OS](https://forum.threefold.io/t/all-you-need-to-know-about-zero-os/1734) supports some other RMB messages as well, for doing things like checking available capacity on a node in real time. RMB is a general purpose protocol that can be used by developers in their applications. It queries the [ThreeFold Blockchain](https://threefold.io/blog/tf_chain/) as a kind of address book for the Planetary Network, enabling nodes and users to find each other in a decentralized way.
-
-## Public IPs and Web Gateways
-
-Finally, let's see how the Grid can offer services over the public Internet using public IP addresses and [web gateways](https://threefold.io/tech/web-gateway/). Everytime we type a domain name into our browser, like threefold.io, it is resolved to an IP address. The browser then forms a connection with that address to retrieve the site we're looking for. Reviving a theme from earlier, that IP must be publicly reachable.
-
-### Public IPs
-
-We're in the midst of a shift from the older IPv4 standard to the newer IPv6 standard. While IPv6 has plenty of addresses for every device on the planet and many more, it hasn't been universally adopted yet, and IPv4 addresses are in short supply. You likely have one assigned to your router at home, and these days, even getting a second one from your ISP can be a difficult and expensive proposition.
-
-<br/>
-
-The ThreeFold Grid allows farmers who own blocks of IPv4 addresses to rent them out to deployers. These addresses get attached to individual workloads which are then reachable over the public Internet. A deployer could then assign their own domain name to that IP and host a website there. This is a very flexible way to make Grid deployments publicly available, but it comes at a relatively high cost.
-
-### Web Gateways
-
-[Web gateways](https://library.threefold.me/info/manual/#/technology/threefold__webgw) are another way to make workloads on the ThreeFold Grid available over the public Internet. In this case, the farmer may provide a domain name that points to one of their nodes which is publicly reachable. Deployers are then able to reserve a subdomain, like explorer.threefold.io is a subdomain of threefold.io, that routes traffic to their workload. It is also possible for a deployer to point their own domain to the gateway node which then routes traffic to the appropriate workloads.
-
-<br/>
-
-We glossed over a bit in the earlier description of domain name to IP address resolution. In fact, multiple domains can point to a single IP address and this is common practice among existing web hosts. Adding similar functionality to the Grid helps to ease the demand for IPv4 addresses and is a lower cost solution for deployers than renting a dedicated IP. The web gateway also serves to enhance security and reliability of Grid-hosted services.
-
-<br/>
-
-The gateway provides a connection from the public Internet to the secure private overlay networks that all workloads use. However, this is not a standard network connection but instead a network socket, which provides security through separation. This is something like passing along the contents of mail pieces without their envelopes. Web gateways also enable redundancy, as multiple gateways can point to the same workload, and multiple workloads can serve the same set of gateways.
-
-<br/>
-
-When we say the ThreeFold Grid scales limitlessly, this is one of the ways that's true. Many nodes, many gateways, many applications, and many users can all fit into this model. Deployers can start with a single [virtual machine](https://library.threefold.me/info/manual/#/manual__weblets_vm?id=virtual-machine) and a single public IP like in the example I'll use to wrap up this piece below, then ramp up to a globally distributed and highly redundant system as their requirements grow.
-
-## Send, receive, complete
-
-Now we've seen how the ThreeFold Grid handles networking. From private and secure communication between workloads, to next generation [peer-to-peer](https://threefold.io/tech/peer-to-peer/) communication and full compatibility with the existing Internet, these offerings are comprehensive. Not only that, but they can be pretty darn fun to play with too.
-
-<br/>
-
-In my own recent experience, I deployed a virtual machine on the Grid with a public IP and hosted a simple website with a map of nodes on the Grid that I'd been working on. I was able to quickly share it with some colleagues and members of the community. It went from a project I was tinkering with on my own computer to a live site on the Internet in a matter of minutes, thanks especially to the [networking features](https://forum.threefold.io/t/tf-deep-dive-session-5-threefold-grid-architecture/1756) of the ThreeFold Grid.
-
-<br/>
-
-For the final piece of this series, we'll see how everything comes together to turn computer code into a meaningful digital experience. Stay tuned!

content/blog/cloud_provider/index.md

@@ -1,55 +0,0 @@
----
-id: cloud_service_providers
-title: "What does it mean to be a Cloud and Internet Service Provider?"
-image_caption: Cloud Service Providers
-description: Our decentralized solutions empower individuals and promote a more sustainable internet. Learn how you can become a cloud provider and join us in shaping a brighter future.
-date: 2024-04-09
-taxonomies:
-  people: [marion_ravarino]
-  tags: [grid, tech]
-  categories: [grid, tech]
-extra:
-    imgPath: cloud_internet_provider1.png
----
-
-Cloud and Internet service providers form the backbone of our digital experiences. They host data and applications, and facilitate connectivity. Major corporations have long dominated this space. When the Internet started to become mainstream, it was necessary to scale the infrastructure quickly to meet growing demand. Thus, with their vast amounts of resources, big companies were the ones to build this infrastructure and offer services on top.
-
-<br/>
-
-For decades, this has been the paradigm – big companies offer commercial services, and businesses and individuals pay for those services. Endless features, sleek design, and high levels of customer support make it easy and efficient for the user and make the services worth paying for. However, as “users,” we have had to give up a great deal of control and the sovereignty of our data. Further, most of the investment in infrastructure has been done in already-rich countries, leaving large populations in emerging markets without fair and affordable access to Cloud and Internet services. And the economic benefit of the entire industry has mostly stayed in the hands of the few large corporations operating these systems.
-
-<br/>
-
-But a new way forward has emerged. Decentralized and edge computing solutions, such as those offered by ThreeFold, aim to empower individuals, strengthen control and promote a more resilient and environmentally-friendly approach to internet and cloud services. Edge computing, a cornerstone of this paradigm shift, involves processing and storing data closer to the source rather than relying on centralized servers. Leveraging edge computing offers many benefits. By processing data closer to its source, it reduces latency for real-time applications, enhances privacy and security, and empowers regions with local data storage. It also optimizes bandwidth, reduces costs, enables seamless scalability, and contributes to environmental sustainability by minimizing energy consumption. Thus, this initiative directly addresses existing limitations and is essential to creating a better infrastructure.
-
-<br/>
-
-The best part? We can achieve it together.
-
-### **Be a cloud service provider, not just a cloud consumer.**
-
-With ThreeFold’s autonomous technology, anyone can be a cloud service provider without any technical expertise. You can be the Internet, for yourself and for those around you. 
-
-<br/>
-
-Being a cloud service provider is a thrilling opportunity to tap into a market worth trillions of dollars – which today is being shared by a relatively small number of companies. This calls for change – a chance to level the playing field and allow more players to benefit from this lucrative industry. But it's not just about financial gain. By entering the cloud services space, you become a catalyst for change. You're not just providing a service; you're creating connections, bridging gaps, and fostering inclusivity. The people around you benefit, too. Lower costs, improved performance, data sovereignty and greater privacy are just some of the advantages they'll enjoy with your services. 
-
-<br/>
-
-Finally, by contributing to a more sustainable edge cloud, you're not only ensuring a better future for yourself, but also for the planet. The adoption of a decentralized autonomous cloud reduces energy consumption and minimizes the environmental impact of data transfer, contributing to global sustainability efforts and a greener future.
-
-<br/>
-
-Best of all, you're not just investing in technology - you're investing in a sustainable, connected and rewarding future, powered by the people, for the people. It's ultimately good for you, good for the people around you, and good for the planet. 
-
-### **How to become a cloud provider?**
-
-ThreeFold enables you to become a cloud service provider by hosting a 3node, bringing local capacity where people need it most and providing compute, storage and AI capabilities. After setting up this node, being verified and sharing capacity on our grid, your contribution is rewarded. 
-
-![Image](./farming_steps.png)
-
-<br/>
-
-Join the movement and [Become a Host](https://www.manual.grid.tf/knowledge_base/technology/grid3_howitworks.html)!
-
-

content/blog/data_leaks/index.md

@@ -1,59 +0,0 @@
----
-id: data_leaks
-title: It's Time We Stand Up For Our Data
-image_caption: stand up for our data
-description: As consumers, we should be able to trust that our data is truly safe and secure. And today, we cannot. It's time we stand up for what is ours.
-date: 2021-06-17
-taxonomies:
-  people: [sam_taggart]
-  tags: [decentralization, why]
-  categories: [decentralization, why]
-extra:
-    imgPath: stand_up_for_our_data.png
----
-
-Do a quick search for "data leak" on your search engine of choice, and you'll likely see headlines like this:
-
-<br>
-
-- Personal Details of Over 3.3M Volkswagen Customers Exposed in Data Leak
-- Billions of emails and passwords appear in largest data leak ever
-- Here's How the IRS Could Have Prevented the Tax Data Leak
-- Time to Change Your Password: Tips on Protecting Yourself from Online Scams
-
-<br>
-
-Week after week, month after month, year after year, companies are being hacked, private consumer data is being compromised and released, and we somehow begin to think that this is the reality of our world, something we just have to deal with.
-
-<br>
-
-Internet security, cyber attacks, and data leaks are a global threat – and increasingly so as the world moves more digital, and smart people with malicious intent try to take advantage. But this is not normal, nor should it be. As consumers, we should be able to trust that our data is truly safe and secure. And today, we cannot. It's time we stand up for what is ours.
-
-<br>
-
-That's where ThreeFold comes in.
-
-<br>
-
-Many of today's issues around cyber security and data privacy come from the lack of innovation in the IT industry over the last decades and the reliance on centralized hyper-scale data centers. ThreeFold has disrupted this model in a few ways:
-
-<br>
-
-First, we started from the ground up. Some ThreeFold co-founders have been working in the cloud & storage space for over two decades, having built components of the cloud and Internet still used today. They knew that the only way to have a truly secure and data sovereign Internet was to rebuild the architecture and the technology components from scratch. So they did. A few years down the line, we've created a new operating system, a smart contract for IT, and a peer-to-peer network that can be scaled to anywhere by anyone.
-
-<br>
-
-Second, we removed people from the equation. IT has become so overly-complex that people are required in order to maintain it. Because of this, "backdoors" are needed to allow these gateholders to enter the systems and make necessary fixes. But this can lead to human error, and also allows people with malicious intent to make their way in as well. With Autonomous IT powering the ThreeFold Grid, the technology runs and heals itself, and drastically reduces the opportunity for humans to interfere.
-
-<br>
-
-And lastly, your data is owned by you. Rather than relying on centralized data centers, the ThreeFold Grid is an Internet grid made up by independent ThreeFold "Farmers" from around the world who plug in capacity from their home or office. While they own the hardware, they do not own the data inside. User data is stored across multiple devices, and proprietary data storage algorithms ensure that the data cannot be retrieved by anyone besides the user – not the farmer, and not even us.
-
-<br>
-
-As Einstein said, "We can't solve our problems with the same level of thinking that created them."
-
-<br>
-
-
-We have a lot more information in [our manual](https://manual.grid.tf/knowledge_base/technology/technology_toc.html) about the technology, but what we want to emphasize here with you is that we don't have to accept data leaks and hacking. There is an answer to the cybersecurity issues the world is facing. And that answer is ThreeFold.

content/blog/decentralizing_the_internet/index.md

@@ -1,52 +0,0 @@
----
-id: decentralzing_the_internet
-title: Decentralizing the Internet
-image_caption: technology internet
-description: In this article, we discuss the general concept of a ‘decentralized grid’ and how anyone can plug-in capacity to the ThreeFold Grid.
-date: 2019-08-21
-taxonomies:
-  people: [sam_taggart]
-  tags: [decentralization, farming, grid, why, cloud, tech]
-  categories: [decentralization, farming, grid, why, cloud, tech]
-extra:
-    imgPath: decentralized_internet.png
----
-
-*This article was originally published by Roel Van Sabben, a former member of the ThreeFold team.*
-
-## Decentralization
-
-In 1989, the Internet changed the world as we know it with the introduction of the World Wide Web. With time the Internet empowered people to share information in a decentralized way. Shortly after, big companies like Facebook, Google, and Apple emerged, providing many solutions that revolutionized the way we live. The “sharing economy” has grown exponentially over the last 5-10 years. This is thanks to a more simplified information flow and well-developed technology, which:
-
-<br>
-
-- Enables a much easier integration of independent players into the sharing economy.
-- Eliminates the need for extensive management and structure of marketplace operators.
-
-<br>
-
-We are entering a flat-structure economy. An economy where fewer managerial levels are needed for the system to function. New technologies such as blockchain and the Internet of Things facilitate this ongoing trend. Participants can now interact on a peer-to-peer basis, forming marketplaces and organizations according to pre-agreed, programmed contracts.
-
-## The current Internet is centralized
-
-Despite the growth in popularity for decentralized systems, organizations, and currencies, the Internet remains centralized. The centralization within the Internet industry brought many barriers to entry. Indeed, to compete in the highly competitive market of Internet capacity dominated by big IT companies, massive investment, and IT development are needed.
-
-<br>
-
-But what is really scary is that the current industry exploits the market tremendously. Data is officially the most valuable asset on earth for a few years, and about 20 companies rule over more than 80% of the cloud industry. In other words - these companies together have more than 80% of the world's information. In recent years, we noticed the dangers that can arise with the wrong intentions within the data industry with the 'Cambridge Analytica Scandal', also highlighted in the movie ['The Great Hack'.](https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=iX8GxLP1FHo)
-
-<br>
-
-ThreeFold has been developing technology that allows the decentralization of the Internet infrastructure - removing the need for data centers, and allowing anyone to take part in the Internet capacity market. Adding capacity to the ThreeFold Grid (TF Grid) makes you a ThreeFold Farmer (TF Farmer). The more decentralized the Internet gets, the more secure and effective it will become. The already is the largest grid of compute and storage in the world.
-
-## How To Participate
-
-The process of becoming a ThreeFold Farmer is very straightforward. Anyone can join the ThreeFold Grid by downloading the ThreeFold Zero-OS onto their nodes and connecting them to the ThreeFold Grid.
-
-<br>
-
-By doing this you will become an operator of a "micro data center" and with that earn ThreeFold Tokens. With or without experience in the field, anyone can become a ThreeFold Farmer. By becoming a ThreeFold Farmer, you empower a new neutral Internet that belongs to humanity - not corporations.
-
-<br>
-
-_Blog written in 2019, updated January 2021._

content/blog/dunia_yetu/index.md

@@ -1,32 +0,0 @@
----
-id: dunia_yetu
-title: "Empowering Tanzania's Digital Future: The Dunia Yetu Initiative"
-image_caption: Dunia Yetu
-description: Dunia Yetu (Our World) is a collaborative and co-owned movement to redefine the digital landscape in Tanzania and East Africa, empower coders spur economic development, and build a self-reliant autonomous digital ecosystem for a better digital future. 
-date: 2024-01-26
-taxonomies:
-  people: [sam_taggart]
-  tags: [community, decentralization, event, collaboration, why]
-  categories: [community, decentralization, event, collaboration, why]
-extra:
-    imgPath: dunia_yetu1.png
----
-
-### Vision of Collective Empowerment 
-
-In the heart of Tanzania, a transformative movement is underway, known as Dunia Yetu, Swahili for "Our World.". More than just a name; it embodies a vision of collective empowerment and digital self-reliance. Dunia Yetu is a beacon of unity, encouraging Tanzanians to take control of their digital destiny. It seeks to redefine the nation's digital landscape, fostering a future where citizens are not just users but architects of their online world.
-
-<br>
-
-### Empowering Tanzania's Youth and Future
-
-At its core, Dunia Yetu is about empowering Tanzanians to reclaim ownership of their digital infrastructure. It envisions a future where the benefits of the Internet are harnessed by the people, for the people. For millions of Tanzanians, Dunia Yetu could represent more than just connectivity; it's a gateway to education, opportunity, and economic empowerment. By democratizing access to the Internet, Dunia Yetu will open doors for entrepreneurship, innovation, and collaboration, especially for the youth. 
-With this project, Tanzania's youth are empowered to shape their digital future, harnessing technology to overcome challenges and seize opportunities. It's not just about connectivity; it's about unlocking the full potential of Tanzania's next generation. 
-
-<br>
-
-### Looking Ahead to 2024:
-
-As Dunia Yetu gains momentum, stay tuned for exciting updates and milestones. In 2024, this transformative project will see the light, ushering in a new era of digital empowerment for Tanzania. 
-
-**Together, through Dunia Yetu, Tanzanians are building a brighter, more inclusive future—one where the digital world truly belongs to us all.**

content/blog/edge_computing/index.md

@@ -1,70 +0,0 @@
----
-id: edge_computing
-title: "ThreeFold: Meeting Digital Demand at the Edge"
-image_caption: Edge Computing
-description: Learn what edge computing means and what it offers compared to centralized cloud infrastructures.
-date: 2024-04-18
-taxonomies:
-  people: [sam_taggart]
-  tags: [grid, tech]
-  categories: [grid, tech]
-extra:
-    imgPath: meeting_digital_demands1.png
-    isFeatured: true
----
-
-*This article was originally published by Emilie Ouwerx, a former member of the ThreeFold team.*
-
-<br>
-
-Today, technological advancements are accelerating at unprecedented rates and the demand for cloud resources has boomed, with the global cloud services market estimated to reach [$2.5tn by 2031](https://www.globenewswire.com/en/news-release/2023/04/03/2639822/0/en/Cloud-Services-Market-is-Expected-to-Reach-2-5-Trillion-by-2031-Allied-Market-Research.html). This is due to a range of factors, including accelerating technological adoption in emerging markets, the rapid digitization of business, the soaring volume of data generated by loT devices, the adoption of Al and machine learning technologies, and the increasing reliance on real-time data processing.
-
-### **The Dilemma of Centralized Cloud Infrastructure**
-
-From bustling cities to the remote corners of the globe, the need for reliable, scalable, and secure cloud infrastructure is universal. But as this demand surges, it is increasingly clear that traditional centralized cloud infrastructures (mostly hyperscale data centers located in North America, Europe, and Asia-Pacific) are no longer sufficient to meet the evolving needs of today's digital landscape. Not only do data centers face an exponential increase in the amount of computing power needed globally (US data center demand alone is forecasted to surge [10% annually until 2030](https://www.mckinsey.com/industries/technology-media-and-telecommunications/our-insights/investing-in-the-rising-data-center-economy)), but confronted with emerging technologies and workloads, they also face inherent latency issues, bandwidth constraints, scalability challenges, and security risks. These limitations hinder the delivery of seamless and efficient cloud services to users worldwide.
-
-<br>
-
-The energy and sustainability challenges of these emerging technologies are demonstrated through the example of ChatGPT-3. Its training alone consumed [1,287 MWh of energy and emitted over 550 tons of carbon dioxide equivalent](https://www.wired.com/story/the-generative-ai-search-race-has-a-dirty-secret/). Such energy-intensive processes are not only a concern for the environment but also highlight the strain on traditional centralized cloud infrastructure. We need a more sustainable alternative to support the soaring demand for cloud services. 
-
-### **Meeting Demand at the Edge**
-
-Edge computing emerges as a compelling solution to address the challenges facing centralized cloud infrastructure. It involves processing data closer to its source (where it is generated), typically at or near the "edge" of the network, where computing resources are deployed in proximity to the devices or sensors that generate the data. This proximity enables quicker data processing and minimizes latency, addressing the shortcomings of centralized data centers. As more devices and applications require processing and storage capabilities at the edge for improved performance, lower latency, and enhanced reliability, the demand for edge computing solutions continues to grow.
-
-<br>
-
-According to [Alexandra Rotaru](https://www.idc.com/getdoc.jsp?containerId=prUS50386323), senior research analyst at the International Data Corporation (IDC), edge computing is “one of the most resilient and attractive areas of investments, growing globally at a double-digit rate over the next five years”, underscoring its growing significance in meeting the evolving computational needs of modern enterprises and service providers. People are clearly looking for alternatives to the centralized data model with [Gartner](https://www.gartner.com/smarterwithgartner/what-edge-computing-means-for-infrastructure-and-operations-leaders) predicting that by 2025, 75% of enterprise-generated data will be processed and created outside of traditional centralized clouds and data centers. 
-
-### **Hello ThreeFold**
-
-ThreeFold, a decentralized autonomous cloud infrastructure, does edge computing by definition. Our cloud is built from 3Nodes, hardware deployed by people locally, allowing data to be processed and stored closer to the source. Decentralized cloud infrastructure is a distributed network of computing resources that are not controlled by a single centralized authority. Instead, these resources are spread across a network of geographically dispersed nodes and managed collectively through decentralized protocols and technologies. As the largest and most advanced decentralized autonomous cloud network in the world, ThreeFold is a pivotal player in meeting growing global demand at the edge.
-
-<br>
-
-![Image](threefold_grid.png#mx-auto)
-
-<br>
-
-Let's dive deeper into why decentralized cloud infrastructure and edge computing offer a compelling solution to the challenges posed by centralized cloud infrastructure: 
-
-<br>
-
-- **Reduced Latency**: By processing data closer to where it is generated, edge computing dramatically reduces latency, ensuring that applications and services respond swiftly to user inputs. Whether it's streaming high-definition video, conducting real-time financial transactions, facilitating real-time interactions in VR and AR settings or controlling IoT devices, minimizing latency is essential for delivering a seamless user experience without delays.
-
-- **Increased Energy Efficiency**: Processing data closer to the source minimizes the energy expended in transmitting data over long distances. Read more about ThreeFold’s energy efficiency [here](https://www.threefold.io/blog/energy-efficiency-explained/).
-
-- **Improved Bandwidth Efficiency**: Edge computing optimizes bandwidth usage by minimizing the need to transmit data over long distances to centralized data centers. This conserves network resources, cuts costs and enables more efficient data transfer, particularly in regions with limited connectivity or bandwidth constraints.
-
-- **Enhanced Scalability**: As devices multiply, centralized data centers often face data overload. Edge computing resolves this by distributing processing tasks closer to the data source, which improves scalability and ensures efficient handling of increasing workloads.
-
-- **Data Privacy and Security**: Data is dispersed across a distributed network of nodes rather than being stored within a single centralized location. This distributed approach reduces the risk of data breaches, unauthorized access, and single points of failure, bolstering the integrity and confidentiality of sensitive information.
-
-- **Support for Real-Time Applications and Emerging Workloads**: Edge computing enables the seamless deployment of real-time applications and services, including immersive virtual environments (metaverse), AI-driven analytics, and IoT ecosystems. 
-
-<br>
-
-![Image](why_decentralized_cloud.png#mx-auto)
-
-<br>
-
-As technology evolves, traditional centralized clouds reveal significant limitations. Decentralized, edge-centric approaches to cloud computing are essential to address the ever-growing global demand for cloud resources and to adapt to the evolving needs of businesses, consumers and communities worldwide. With ThreeFold at the forefront, the future of cloud computing is decentralized, distributed, and transformative. 

content/blog/energy_efficiency_explained/index.md

@@ -1,39 +0,0 @@
----
-id: energy_efficiency_explained
-title: "ThreeFold's Energy Efficiency Explained"
-image_caption: Efficiency Explained
-description: Read how ThreeFold technology results in up-to 90% energy savings depending on workloads.
-date: 2023-10-11
-taxonomies:
-  people: [sam_taggart]
-  tags: [decentralization, grid, why, tech]
-  categories: [decentralization, grid, why, tech]
-extra:
-    imgPath: energy_efficiency1.png
----
-
-At ThreeFold, we [believe](/mission) that everything we do should benefit people and our planet. The emergence of a decentralized Internet grid not only reshapes the digital landscape but helps to pioneer a more sustainable future. At the core of this evolution lies a series of innovative strategies poised to revolutionize the way we perceive and utilize digital infrastructure.
-
-## Zero OS
-
-Traditionally, operating systems have been laden with an array of features, consuming substantial hardware resources. However, with Zero OS, our paradigm shifts towards a lightweight, autonomous design. By getting rid of unnecessary complexities, this design not only optimizes hardware space but also fosters an environment conducive to enhanced IT workloads.
-
-## Quantum-Safe Storage
-
-One of the most staggering inefficiencies within the industry has been the substantial overhead of storage systems. Our quantum-safe storage system marks a monumental departure from the norm, slashing the overhead from a staggering 400% to a mere fraction, 20%. This unprecedented leap in efficiency heralds a new era of streamlined storage practices, ensuring optimal utilization of resources.
-
-## Efficient Node Management
-
-Energy conservation takes center stage with our node management tool, Farmerbot. Embracing the principle of 'on-demand' functionality, nodes remain dormant when idle, conserving energy resources. Through the implementation of Farmerbot, these nodes seamlessly power on and off as required, minimizing unnecessary consumption without compromising accessibility.
-
-## Automated Autonomy
-
-We're saying goodbye to human intermediaries and centralized control centers. Our system operates autonomously, governed by smart contracts that orchestrate every facet of its functionality. This automated ecosystem not only eradicates the need for constant human intervention but also ensures streamlined operations, optimizing efficiency at every turn.
-
-## Peer-to-Peer Advancement
-
-The conventional route from sender to recipient often travels extensive distances, bouncing through data centers and intermediaries. Our peer-to-peer network revolutionizes this process by forging direct connections, seeking the shortest path between sender and recipient. By circumventing unnecessary detours, this approach minimizes energy expenditure and data latency, elevating both speed and efficiency.
-
-## Final Thoughts
-
-The dawn of ThreeFold's decentralized Internet grid beckons a transformative era in digital infrastructure. Through the combination of a lightweight operating system, quantum-safe storage, energy-conscious node management, automated autonomy, and a peer-to-peer network, the paradigm of efficiency in the digital realm has been redefined. The aggregated result is up-to 90% energy savings depending on workloads. This evolution not only champions sustainability but also propels us towards a future where connectivity thrives in harmony with resource conservation.

content/blog/escape_great_hack/index.md

@@ -1,39 +0,0 @@
----
-id: escape_great_hack
-title: An escape from the Great Hack
-image_caption: technology hackers
-description: I can’t help but think how unfair it is that in today’s digital society, people are being treated like products, because there is no such thing as a ‘free’ platform without YOU being the product.
-date: 2019-11-21
-taxonomies:
-  people: [sabrina_sadik]
-  tags: [decentralization, why]
-  categories: [decentralization, why]
-extra:
-    imgPath: great_hack.png
----
-
-## The neutrality of the current Internet is in danger.
-
-Have you seen ‘The Great Hack’ on Netflix? It’s a documentary about the Cambridge Analytica hacking scandal, where personal data of millions of peoples’ Facebook profiles were harvested without their consent and used for political advertising purposes. 
-<br/>
-<br/>
-While watching it, I couldn’t help but think how unfair it is that in today’s digital society, people are being treated like products, because there is no such thing as a ‘free’ platform without YOU being the product. What did reassure me, is that people are sick of having their data used this way. But what they might not know, is that the internet problem is bigger than ‘just’ data protection.
-<br/>
-<br/>
-The Internet is growing at an exponential rate. To service this demand, a few large companies (Google, Amazon, Alibaba, Facebook, etc.) have built and continue to build supersized, power-hungry and centralized data centers. These data centers make up the majority of all Internet capacity available today. However, the Internet is expanding much faster than datacenters and the planet can cope with. 
-<br/>
-<br/>
-In addition to that, the Internet is extremely centralized, with most of these data centers being located in the US. Think of it like electricity. If consumers in, for example, Turkey had to use electricity generated in the US, it would be too expensive and inefficient, because it is too far away. The transmission lines would be too strained and losses and repairs would make it unsustainable. Capacity is like electricity. When centralized, it becomes too expensive and wasteful for remote users.
-
-## So what is the solution to these problems? 
-
-The Internet needs to be more distributed, cost-effective, neutral, and sustainable. ThreeFold has developed such a new technology, the ThreeFold Grid (Grid) and a token which enables all this to happen.
-<br/>
-<br/>
-Combining the values of the ThreeFold Foundation (freedom, equality and fairness) with the technology developed by TFTech (Zero-OS, Zero-Chain, 3Bot) and a digital currency called the ThreeFold Token (a decentralized digital currency and means of payment to exchange autonomous and decentralized Internet services)  we believe that we have all the tools in order to actually make a difference in tomorrow's digital world. Question is, are you ready to join us? 
-<br/>
-<br/>
-Please visit [our forum](https://forum.threefold.io) if you have any questions or would like to continue the conversation!
-<br/>
-<br/>
-

content/blog/evolution_of_the_internet/index.md

@@ -1,52 +0,0 @@
----
-id: evolution_of_the_internet
-title: "The Evolution of the Internet: From Free to Controlled, and Back Again"
-image_caption: technology
-description: Explore the internet's evolution from a decentralized network to a controlled system, and the emerging movement to reclaim its original vision through ThreeFold.
-date: 2024-08-16
-taxonomies:
-  people: [bernadette_amanda_caster]
-  tags: [tech,community]
-  categories: [tech,community]
-extra:
-    imgPath: evolution_of_the_internet1.png
-    isFeatured: true
----
-
-The internet has undergone a remarkable transformation since its inception in the 1960s. What started as a small, decentralized network designed for sharing knowledge and fostering collaboration has evolved into a vast, complex system that influences almost every aspect of modern life. However, this journey has been marked by significant shifts in the structure and nature of the internet, leading us to a critical juncture today.
-
-#### The Birth of the Internet
-In the 1960s, the internet was born from a simple yet revolutionary idea—a peer-to-peer network that allowed researchers and institutions to connect and share information freely. This early version of the internet was decentralized, with no central authority controlling the data flow. It was a place where collaboration and open communication flourished, laying the groundwork for a digital world built on trust and transparency. The internet was seen as a tool for empowering individuals and fostering a global exchange of ideas, embodying a vision of a free and open digital space.
-
-#### The Internet Changes
-As the internet expanded throughout the 2000s, it became a global phenomenon, with millions of users coming online and businesses quickly recognizing its potential. However, this rapid growth came at a cost. The internet, once a bastion of free and open communication, began to be dominated by commercial interests. Companies saw the vast potential for profit in the digital world and began to exert control over the internet's infrastructure and the data flowing through it.
-
-<br/>
-
-This shift toward commercialization led to a more centralized and controlled version of the internet. The original spirit of the internet—one of trust, openness, and decentralized collaboration—started to fade. User data became a valuable commodity, often exploited for profit, and the internet grew increasingly insecure. The once-free and collaborative space became a battleground for control, and the idea of a decentralized internet seemed to be slipping away.
-
-#### A New Era for the Internet
-Today, in 2024, we find ourselves at a pivotal moment in the history of the internet. While it has become an essential part of our lives, the current model is not sustainable. Issues like data privacy, security, and the environmental impact of massive data centers have highlighted the need for change.
-
-<br/>
-
-In response to these challenges, a new vision for the internet is emerging—one that seeks to restore the principles of sovereignty, security, and sustainability. This vision is being realized by developing ultra-secure, green, scalable, and user-friendly autonomous cloud technologies. These innovations aim to create a more sovereign internet, where users have control over their data and where the infrastructure is more environmentally responsible.
-
-<br/>
-
-The goal is to return to the original ideals of the internet—open-sourced and decentralized—but with the added benefits of modern technology. By embracing these new technologies and renewing our commitment to decentralization and openness, we can create a better, more secure internet for everyone.
-
-#### Redefining the Internet: ThreeFold's Path to Change
-The internet’s evolution from a modest, collaborative network to a global powerhouse has been revolutionary, yet this growth has come at a cost. Originally built on principles of openness, decentralization, and the free exchange of information, the internet has increasingly become centralized, commercialized, and fraught with privacy and security concerns. Today, despite its immense power, the internet has strayed from the visionary ideals that once guided its creation. However, there is a growing movement to reclaim the internet’s original promise. By revisiting these foundational principles and embracing new technologies, we have the opportunity to build a digital world that is secure, sustainable, and true to the vision of a free and open internet.
-
-<br/>
-
-This is where ThreeFold comes in. ThreeFold is pioneering a fundamental shift in how we approach the internet and cloud infrastructure. By building from the ground up, ThreeFold is creating a decentralized autonomous cloud that is truly transformative. Unlike traditional cloud services, which are often centralized and controlled by a few major players, ThreeFold’s infrastructure is distributed across a network of 3Nodes—hardware deployed locally by individuals and communities worldwide.
-
-<br/>
-
-This decentralized approach offers significant benefits: it enhances security by reducing single points of failure, lowers costs by leveraging local resources, increases energy efficiency by processing data closer to the source, and provides unmatched scalability to meet global demand. By empowering individuals to contribute to and benefit from this network, ThreeFold is helping to create a sovereign internet—one that is owned by the people, for the people.
-
-<br/>
-
-ThreeFold’s vision goes beyond technology: it’s about returning to the core values that once defined the internet. By fostering genuine collaboration, respecting privacy, and ensuring that the internet remains open and accessible to all, ThreeFold is helping to usher in a new era. In this era, the internet will not only connect us but also empower us, enabling a more equitable, secure, and sustainable digital future.

content/blog/farming_pools/index.md

@@ -1,35 +0,0 @@
----
-id: farming_pools
-title: "Unveiling Farming Pools"
-image_caption: Farming Pools
-description: Farming Pools mark a significant step towards ensuring reliability, fairness, and robust governance within our ecosystem.
-date: 2023-12-05
-taxonomies:
-  people: [sam_taggart]
-  tags: [community, decentralization, farming]
-  categories: [community, decentralization, farming]
-extra:
-    imgPath: farming_pools1.png
----
-
-With a long-term focus on version 4.0, and a move towards commercialization, we are embracing several new strategies to ensure more reliability and trust. Farming Pools are an innovative mechanism designed to foster better governance and equitable participation within our network.
-
-<br>
-
-Farming Pools represent a shift in our ecosystem. Every version 4.0 Farmer will need to join a Farming Pool, marking a collective commitment to uphold stringent service level agreements. These agreements will encompass crucial aspects like uptime, response time, and available bandwidth. Furthermore, adherence to a service agreement and specific terms and conditions is paramount, ensuring a standardized quality of service across the network.
-
-<br>
-
-Empowering our Farmers, the introduction of Farming Pools grants them the authority to set pricing for their offered services. Whether it's storage, network capabilities, or computing capacity, Farmers hold the reins in determining the value they provide.
-
-<br>
-
-In addition, Farmers will now have the option to stake tokens on their farms. This strategic staking mechanism introduces an additional layer of accountability — a 'slashing' mechanism. In the event of failing to meet the agreed-upon service level commitments, a proportion of their stake may be forfeited. This not only incentivizes reliability but also fortifies the overall quality and dependability of our network.
-
-<br>
-
-Central to the Farming Pools is a regulated approach. It provides a centralized platform facilitating staking, token holding, as well as regulated buying and selling of tokens. This centralized stance ensures oversight and governance while maintaining the decentralized ethos that defines our network.
-
-<br>
-
-Farming Pools, therefore, mark a significant step towards ensuring reliability, fairness, and robust governance within our ecosystem. By uniting Farmers under stringent agreements, empowering them to set prices, and introducing accountability through token staking, we fortify the foundation of a network built upon trust, integrity, and collective responsibility.

content/blog/ground_up_innovations/index.md

@@ -1,71 +0,0 @@
----
-id: ground_up_innovations
-title: "From the ground up: Three inventions that make ThreeFold possible"
-image_caption: Ground Up Innovations
-description: The future of the Internet lies in breaking free from the constraints of outdated, centralized systems and embracing a new paradigm.
-date: 2024-07-24
-taxonomies:
-  people: [sam_taggart]
-  tags: [grid,decentralization,tech,why]
-  categories: [grid,decentralization,tech,why]
-extra:
-    imgPath: from_the_ground_up1.png
----
-
-Building a cloud and internet infrastructure from the ground up is no easy, or quick, task. But if we want a truly different way forward, there is no other way, really. We do what we do, the way we do it, because we cannot continue to put “band-aids” on problems which require a much deeper and thoughtful approach.
-
-<br/>
-
-*Failing to address systemic flaws at their root cause only creates more issues.*
-
-<br/>
-
-This is how, in part, the Internet today became a complex, unsafe, inefficient, highly-centralized system in the first place – where many of the biggest platforms also own the infrastructure and profit from us, the “users.”
-
-<br/>
-
-This is why we see outages and shutdowns and data hacks and masses of people migrating from platform to platform in search of greater privacy. But remember, you’re not “De-Googling” yourself if the alternative you migrate to runs on Google or some similar centralized cloud infrastructure.
-
-<br/>
-
-This is why we have built a decentralized autonomous cloud infrastructure from the ground up. To enable a sovereign Internet which is owned by the people – safe, secure, and can scale to billions, all while driving cost and energy consumption down dramatically.
-
-<br/>
-
-So let’s take a look at what makes this all possible:
-
-### **A new bare metal operating system**
-
-It is challenging to use current Linux-based operating systems safely and efficiently on the edges of the Internet. They require central management, involve excessive complexity, and prove difficult to update and maintain, resulting in numerous security vulnerabilities. To revolutionize the internet, we had to rethink how we host our applications, essentially reinventing the concept of a cloud-based operating system.
-
-<br/>
-
-[Zero OS](https://threefold.info/tech/tech/zos_innovation.html) is an innovative operating system, retaining the Linux kernel but fundamentally redesigned for heightened security, efficiency, and support for true peer-to-peer and decentralized workloads. This unique operating system doesn't require installation on hard disks or SSDs; it remains stateless, consistently up to date, and autonomously managed without human intervention. Its design enables scalability to millions of nodes and self-healing application delivery, opening new possibilities in system resilience and reliability.
-
-### **A quantum safe storage system**
-
-Traditional backend storage systems have their roots in centralized environments, focusing on low-latency and closed security setups. However, these characteristics make them less suitable for use in decentralized cloud contexts.
-
-<br/>
-
-Newer generation storage systems such as protocol-driven or blockchain-based solutions may face scalability and performance limitations and may not fulfill certain critical requirements that we consider essential.
-
-<br/>
-
-[Quantum Safe Storage](https://threefold.info/tech/tech/zstor_innovation.html) is an ultra-scalable system capable of storing data indestructibly and efficiently. Previous versions of this system created by our team are widely used to store Zetabytes of information by large organizations.
-
-### **A quantum safe network system**
-
-The current centralized state of the internet poses significant security risks, with compromised routers and growing cyber threats (trillions of USD per year now), making everyone vulnerable to hacking. Industry responses involve disabling original features, hindering true peer-to-peer connectivity and personal server capabilities. Workarounds and system hacks have become the norm.
-
-<br/>
-
-[Mycelium](https://threefold.info/tech/tech/mycelium_inno.html) is an overlay network layer designed to enhance the existing internet infrastructure while remaining compatible with all current applications. It empowers true peer-to-peer communication. Mycelium can look for the shortest path, has a built-in naming and CDN (Content Delivery) system, and can survive disaster and network cuts much more efficiently as is possible today.
-
-### **The only way**
-
-The future of the Internet lies in breaking free from the constraints of outdated, centralized systems and embracing a new paradigm. By fundamentally addressing the root causes of inefficiency, insecurity, and centralization in today's systems, we can create a more resilient and equitable digital world.
-
-<br/>
-
-*If interested, [go deeper](https://www.threefold.io/blog/three-layers/) into the inner-workings of the Internet as compared to ThreeFold.*

content/blog/hatch_podcast/index.md

@@ -1,45 +0,0 @@
----
-id: hatch_podcast
-title: Empowering Digital Autonomy- Collaborative Innovations for Africa’s Regenerative Future
-image_caption: hatch podcast
-description: A collaborative discussion between HATCH, ThreeFold, and Hub Culture explored the intersections of AI, digital autonomy, highlighting Africa's potential for self-sufficient development and much more.
-date: 2024-06-21
-taxonomies:
-  people: [bernadette_amanda_caster]
-  tags: [community, event, collaboration, why]
-  categories: [community, event, collaboration, why]
-extra:
-    imgPath: collaborative_innovations1.png
----
-
-#### Introduction 
-In a recently published collaborative episode between HATCH, ThreeFold, and Hub Culture's Chronicle Discussions, innovative minds converged in Zanzibar, Tanzania, to delve into the intersections of technology, digital autonomy, and the evolving landscape of artificial intelligence (AI).
-
-#### African Regenerative Futures - Part 1
-Led by Tate Chamberlain, the conversation featured Stan Stalnaker (Founder and CEO of Hub Culture), Kristof de Spiegeleer (co-founder of ThreeFold), and Kalebu Gwalugano (Founder and CEO of Sarufi), each offering unique perspectives on the open-source Internet, the future of digital communities, AI development, and data autonomy.
-
-<br/>
-
-Kalebu introduced [Sarufi](https://sarufi.io/), a platform he created to empower developers and business owners to develop tailored chatbots in local languages, utilizing AI technologies. Gualugano's vision resonated with Stan and Kristof, who emphasized the importance of community-driven initiatives and open-source principles in driving technological innovation.
-
-<br/>
-
-[Hub Culture's](https://hubculture.com/) commitment to digital identity, asset tokenization, and AI governance aligned closely with ThreeFold's mission to revolutionize Internet infrastructure and promote individual autonomy. The two entities showcased the potential for collaborative efforts in advancing AI capabilities while maintaining ethical standards and data autonomy.
-
-<br/>
-
-The conversation covered a range of topics:
-
-- **Evolving nature of AI**: Ethical considerations in AI development; Concerns about data privacy and algorithmic bias; Importance of responsible AI development
-- **Zanzibar's tech scene and initiatives by ThreeFold alongside Sarufi & Hubcluture**: Potential to shape digital communities and AI development; Foster collaboration and promote open-source principles; Prioritize digital autonomy and human-centric design; Guided by ethical principles and community engagement; Aim to create a more inclusive, equitable, and sustainable digital future
-- **Collaboration between Kristof, Stan, and Kalebu**: Convergence of values and visions; Emphasis on open-source software, digital identity, and AI development; Shared journey towards empowering and ethically sound technology; Exploration of AI, digital autonomy and community-driven innovation
-- **Exploration of AI's Present & Future**: Questions of autonomy, control, and intelligence; Intersecting paths of technology, community, and digital innovation; AI as an autonomous being; Challenge to conventional views of AI development; Current limitations of AI; Importance of understanding ethical implications
-
-### African Regenerative Futures - Part 2 
-The African Regenerative Futures Summit in Zanzibar brought together key voices to discuss Tanzania's development opportunities in a lively manner, focusing on technology, education, and entrepreneurship. Veronica Likunama and Victor Muhagachi emphasized the importance of local context and community support in overcoming systemic challenges. Dr. Stephanie Dungu's entrepreneurial journey underscored the need for innovative solutions in healthcare. Participants advocated for a unique, self-sufficient development path for Africa, prioritizing local talent, sustainable practices, and collaborative efforts to foster holistic growth and redefine success.
-
-<br/>
-
-You can listen to the full podcast on [Spotify](https://open.spotify.com/episode/4z23AVcUKniR2NbTUxjrj1?si=RNk_667qSNODn_mMSXuoRA), [Soundcloud](https://soundcloud.com/iaminterchange/african-regenerative-futures-part-1?utm_source=clipboard&utm_medium=text&utm_campaign=social_sharing), or [Apple Podcast](https://podcasts.apple.com/us/podcast/african-regenerative-futures-part-1/id1196541263?i=1000650863066)
-
-

content/blog/how_to_test_the_grid_part_one/index.md

@@ -1,73 +0,0 @@
----
-id: how_to_test_the_grid_part_one
-title: ThreeFold Grid Testing - Ensuring Quality for Users
-image_caption: technology
-description: Learn about the testing process on the ThreeFold Grid, covering four networks and utilizing both manual and automated tests for stability and reliability.
-date: 2024-05-03
-taxonomies:
-  people: [bernadette_amanda_caster]
-  tags: [tech,grid,community]
-  categories: [tech,grid,community]
-extra:
-    imgPath: grid_testing1.png
----
-
-Hi there and welcome to ThreeFold Grid Testing: Part One!
-
-</br>
-
-In this blog, we will introduce you to the overall cycle of testing on the TFGrid. Before releasing anything to the mainnet, TF engineers test three different networks: Devnet, Qanet, and Testnet. Testing also continues on the Mainnet even after the release of the updates. Today, we will go through the major steps of this process. 
-
-### **But first – why is testing important?**
-
-Testing upgrades as they're developed ensures we have a stable operation of the TFGrid that is constantly optimal for our community. It lets us see what works well and what still needs fixing. By the time our community gets these upgrades, they've been tested many times to make sure they're top-notch.
-
-</br>
-
-When it comes to testing the developments on the ThreeFold Grid, we need to be careful, especially when we're doing separate tests from the different networks. If we don't focus on testing the developments independently, testing can become a lot slower and more complicated.
-
-</br>
-
-**Different networks for testing:** We test on 3 different networks before we release anything on Mainnet.
-
-![Image](./testing_roadmap.jpg)
-
-</br>
-
-### **Testing all Networks sequentially**
-
-Our journey through these networks follows a well-defined path.
-
-</br>
-
-First, verification starts on Devnet with the dev team leading the validation process. Once the development team approves, we release the grid to the Qanet for further examination.
-
-</br>
-
-The QA teams conduct iterative test runs within Qanet, leading to a Bug Assessment Meeting to address reported issues. If the release is deemed ready for deployment, it moves to Testnet for an extended observation period.
-
-</br>
-
-Following two weeks of rigorous testing on Testnet releases advance to Mainnet once a community vote approves a Grid Enhancement Proposal, indicating readiness for widespread adoption. As the release enters Mainnet, QA teams begin new test iterations to ensure a smooth transition for user accessibility.
-
-![Image](./testing_cycle.png)
-
-</br>
-
-Testing is done both manually and automated: 
-
-</br>
-
-**Manual testing:** At the core of our testing process is the thorough manual inspection of components using the advanced [Testlodge](https://manual.grid.tf/knowledge_base/collaboration/testing/testlodge.html) tool. 
-
-</br>
-
-**Automation Testing:** We also run Automated scripts on GitHub actions daily; to give us an early indication about the TFGrid.
-
-</br>
-
-We will go through these two types of testing further in part two.
-
-### **Conclusion**
-
-The testing journey within the ThreeFold Grid is intentionally and necessarily thorough, a delicate balance between manual precision and automated finesse, all designed to provide a strong and reliable cloud infrastructure for our users. Next time, stay tuned for more updates on how we conduct these tests and how they help us improve the grid's reliability. [Join us](https://t.me/threefoldtesting) as we strive for excellence and continue to advance in the world of decentralized technology.