Zeus Network (ZEUS) is a Layer 1.5 blockchain protocol designed to bridge the gap between Bitcoin and Solana. It transforms Bitcoin from a non-programmable, Proof-of-Work asset into a programmable one, enabling its use in decentralised finance (DeFi) and cross-chain applications. With ZEUS, Bitcoin can be integrated into Solana’s high-performance ecosystem to support use cases such as stablecoins, NFTs, governance, and DeFi protocols.
Zeus Network connects Bitcoin’s UTXO model with Solana’s smart contract environment using a Layer 1.5 architecture. It employs multi-party computation (MPC) and threshold signature schemes to validate Bitcoin transactions securely. Taproot and Schnorr signatures enhance privacy and efficiency, while off-chain signature aggregation boosts throughput. The network operates on a Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus model, allowing validators to stake SOL or liquid derivatives (LD-SOL) for securing operations. Smart contracts are deployed using the Solana Virtual Machine (SVM), enabling the creation and management of programmable Bitcoin assets like zBTC.
Zeus Network unlocks several powerful cross-chain and DeFi use cases. These include programmable Bitcoin assets such as zBTC for use in Solana-based DeFi platforms, Bitcoin-collateralised stablecoins for added market liquidity, and cross-chain NFT minting and trading. The network also supports liquidity provisioning and asset management via protocols like Artemis and Apollo, and enables decentralised governance through Bitcoin-backed community tools. These features extend Bitcoin’s utility beyond value storage, integrating it into the broader decentralised economy.
Zeus Network was founded by Justin Wang and a team of blockchain engineers to overcome Bitcoin’s programmability limitations. The project launched with the development of the Zeus Layer 1.5 protocol and the Zeus Program Library (ZPL). Milestones include the secure issuance of zBTC, the implementation of MPC and threshold cryptography, and the deployment of DeFi protocols such as Artemis and Apollo. Today, Zeus Network operates as a full-scale cross-chain infrastructure that merges Bitcoin’s security with Solana’s speed and programmability.