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Layer 2 & Scaling

Hydra

Hydra is an open-source Haskell implementation of Cardano’s Hydra Head protocol. Its hydra-node coordinates a single Head, connects to other nodes over statically configured TCP connections, interfaces with Cardano, persists Head state locally and provides a WebSocket/HTTP API for clients.

Explore the practical guide ↓

Independent OpenViST project profile, based on linked sources.

Hydra — OpenViST project profile in Layer 2 & Scaling.
OpenViST project illustration. See the linked sources for product details.
Understand the project

Practical overview

When it fits

Consider Hydra when developing or operating software around Cardano’s Hydra Head protocol, especially when a client needs the node API or a team needs to run a node. Review the known issues and protocol documentation before participating, particularly where real funds are involved.

Who it is for

  • Cardano application developers integrating client software with a Hydra Head node.
  • Node operators participating in the Hydra Head protocol.
  • Developers building terminal clients, monitoring interfaces or deployment tooling for hydra-node.

Documented uses

  • Connect client software to a Hydra Head node through its WebSocket/HTTP API.
  • Run a hydra-node using the published Docker image.
  • Use the included hydra-tui example as a reference for a terminal client.
  • Integrate a node with Cardano through the documented Direct connection.
Before you choose

Requirements & limits

The repository is public and identifies the project as Apache-2.0 licensed. A Docker image is documented.

  • A hydra-node coordinates one Head; the repository lists management of multiple Heads per node as a later item.
  • Peer connections are direct TCP connections with static network configuration.
  • The node exposes both WebSocket and HTTP API access for clients.
  • The README describes the protocol as in development and directs users to review known issues before use.

Check current requirements in the official documentation. Source-based guidance does not mean OpenViST has run or independently tested this project.

Source-based practical guide

Inspect hydra-node with its Docker image

Pull the published image and display the node’s command-line help.

Before you start

  • Docker

Steps

  1. Pull ghcr.io/cardano-scaling/hydra-node.

  2. Run the image with --help: docker run --rm ghcr.io/cardano-scaling/hydra-node --help.

Expected outcome

The container runs the hydra-node help command.

Guide limitations

  • This documented example does not configure a Head, connect peers or establish production suitability.
Documentation 1 ↗
Evidence and transparency

Sources & review

Official repository ↗
Source record details
Source availability
Active
Sources checked
10 October 2026
Original website title
cardano-scaling/hydra · Official homepage title · retained in its source language
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