# Glossary

## API

A set of rules and protocols for building software applications that allow for the integration of different systems.

## Data feed

A stream of data provided by an off-chain source to a smart contract or other systems.

## Data provider

A company or organization that provides data to a smart contract or other systems.

## Data validation

The process of verifying the accuracy and completeness of data.\
\
**Decentralized Autonomous Organization**

## Finality

The point when a data request’s answer cannot be reverted because it is too expensive for a malicious actor to do so.

## Governance

The process of making and enforcing rules and decisions within a blockchain network.

## Interoperability

The ability for different blockchain networks to communicate and exchange data with each other.

## Off-chain data

Data that is not stored or directly available on a blockchain network but instead referenced by oracles.

## Oracle

A special type of messenger that can fetch information from the outside world and safely bring it to the smart contract, on-chain.

## Permissionless

A system that does not require permission from any central authority to join or participate.

## Smart contract

A self-executing contract with the terms of the agreement between involved parties being directly written into lines of code.

## Total Value Secured (TVS)

The Total Value Secured is the sum of an oracle network's economic impact and adoption. 


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