The XRP Ledger is a decentralized public blockchain built for business. The peer-to-peer network that manages the ledger is open to everyone. The XRP Ledger is maintained by software engineers, server operators, users, and businesses–a global community working to solve problems and create real-world value.

To uphold performance, XRPL uses a consensus protocol. Designated servers called validators, which anyone can operate, agree on the order and outcome of XRP transactions every three to five seconds. All servers in the network process each transaction according to the same rules, and any transaction that follows the protocol is confirmed immediately. All transactions are public, and strong cryptography guarantees the system's integrity.

Over 120 validators are active on the ledger, operated by universities, exchanges, businesses, and individuals. As the validator pool grows, the consensus protocol ensures the decentralization of the blockchain over time.