#### What is Threshold? Threshold is a decentralized network that provides a suite of [cryptographic](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-cryptography) primitives for various [decentralized applications](https://help.coinbase.com/en/wallet/other-topics/what-is-a-dapp) ([dApps](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/wallet/guide-to-dapps)). The network was born from the merger of the Keep Network and NuCypher, and it utilizes the T token as both a utility and governance token. The T token is primarily used to [stake](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-staking) a [node](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/node), with node operators receiving fees from applications that rely on Threshold's cryptographic primitives. The network also offers a range of cryptographic building [blocks](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/block) for privacy, access controls, and cross-chain bridges. One of the key applications of Threshold is tBTC, a [tokenized](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-token) [Bitcoin](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-bitcoin) that is completely permissionless, allowing anyone to tokenize their Bitcoin and use it in [DeFi](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-defi) applications without sacrificing privacy or risking censorship. #### How does Threshold work? Threshold operates by distributing cryptographic operations across a network of independent nodes, enhancing security and availability while reducing reliance on trusted parties. The T token allows holders to power the platform by [staking](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/trading-and-funding/staking-rewards/eth-2-0-staking) and running a decentralized node. The network's flagship services include tBTC, a Bitcoin asset bridge, and TACo, an access control plugin. These functionalities are decentralized and trust-minimized, ensuring robust security and integrity. The network also provides a suite of cryptographic tools to power the privacy-focused and self-sovereign decentralized future. #### What are the potential use cases for Threshold? Threshold provides a range of cryptographic building blocks that have various potential use cases. These include Proxy re-encryption (PRE), Threshold signatures (TSS), [Distributed](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/distributed) key generation (DKG), and Random beacon (RB). These tools can be used for privacy, access controls, and cross-chain bridges. The network's flagship application, tBTC, allows anyone to tokenize their Bitcoin and use it in DeFi applications without sacrificing privacy or risking censorship. This makes Threshold a valuable tool for anyone looking to leverage the power of decentralized finance without compromising on security or privacy. #### What is the history of Threshold? Threshold was created through the merger of the Keep Network and NuCypher, with the idea for the merger first proposed by the community in February 2021. The final proposal, which defined the terms of the merger, was approved in June 2021 by both communities. The merger was finalized on January 1, 2022, with the launch of the T token. The network's initial supply of 10 billion T tokens was allocated to NU holders, KEEP holders, and the Threshold [DAO](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/decentralized-autonomous-organization--dao-). The network has since continued to evolve, with the aim of providing a full suite of decentralized threshold cryptography services.