#### What is Theta Network? Theta Network is a Layer 1 [blockchain](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-blockchain) and decentralized infrastructure designed for Video, AI, and Entertainment use cases. It consists of two complementary subsystems: the Theta Blockchain and the Theta Edge Network. The Theta Blockchain provides payment, reward, [staking](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/trading-and-funding/staking-rewards/eth-2-0-staking), and [smart contract](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-smart-contract) capabilities, while the Theta Edge Network handles the compute, storage, and delivery of video streams, AI tasks, and other scientific, simulation, and financial modeling use cases. Theta Network has two native [cryptocurrencies](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-cryptocurrency): THETA, used for staking and governance, and TFUEL, used as [gas](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/gas-fee) for all transactions and on-chain smart contract interactions. #### How does Theta Network work? Theta Network operates as a "dual network" with the Theta Blockchain and the Theta Edge Network working in tandem. The Theta Blockchain, a proof-of-[stake](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-staking) blockchain, handles payment, reward, staking, and smart contract capabilities. On the other hand, the Theta Edge Network is responsible for the compute, storage, and delivery of video streams, AI tasks, and other use cases. The network utilizes a unique Multi-Level BFT [consensus mechanism](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/consensus-mechanism-protocol), allowing thousands of nodes to participate in the consensus process while still supporting high transaction throughput. The Theta Network also employs an Aggregated Signature Gossip Scheme to reduce messaging complexity and a Resource Oriented Micropayment Pool for efficient video streaming. #### What are the potential use cases for Theta Network? Theta Network aims to enable media companies to drive incremental revenues, user engagement, and new [Web3](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/web3) business models. Its infrastructure offers significantly lower costs for video transcoding, storage, and content delivery, powered by patented Digital Rights Management technology. Theta Network also underpins the ThetaDrop [NFT](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/nft) marketplace, which collaborates with various leading brands to disrupt the digital collectibles industry. Furthermore, Theta Network's enterprise [validator](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/glossary/validator-) and governance council is led by global leaders, indicating its potential for widespread adoption and use. #### What is the history of Theta Network? Theta Network was introduced as a new blockchain and token as the incentive mechanism for a decentralized video streaming and delivery network. It was designed to solve various challenges the video streaming industry faces today. The Theta Network launched with [ERC20](https://help.coinbase.com/en/coinbase/getting-started/crypto-education/what-is-erc20)-compliant [tokens](https://www.coinbase.com/learn/crypto-basics/what-is-a-token) and was integrated into the SLIVER.tv platform in December 2017. The Theta blockchain mainnet code has been released, and the first live mainnet implementation was planned to launch on March 15, 2019. Theta Network is advised by Steve Chen, co-founder of YouTube, and Justin Kan, co-founder of Twitch, indicating its strong roots in the video streaming industry.