Walrus is designed as a long term storage layer for crypto applications that need to work with large data without giving up decentralization. Many blockchains handle ownership well but struggle with big files, so Walrus takes a different path. It stores data across a network of storage nodes while using a blockchain to coordinate, verify, and enforce how long that data must remain available.
The system works by breaking files into encoded pieces and distributing them across nodes. Once enough nodes confirm they are storing the data, the network writes a proof on chain that marks the start of the storage commitment. From that point forward, applications can check on chain whether the data is supposed to exist and for how long. I’m saying this plainly because it changes storage from a hope into an obligation.
They’re also careful about incentives. Storage nodes are rewarded over time for keeping data available, which encourages long term behavior instead of short term tricks. Users pay for storage up front, and the system spreads those rewards across the storage period, so availability is continuously paid for, not assumed.
Walrus is used by builders who need reliable access to large data like media, proofs, or archives. The long term goal is simple but heavy. They want storage to feel like a dependable public resource where data can be verified, extended, and relied on without fear that it will vanish quietly.