> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.stakeease.com/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.stakeease.com/background/eigenlayer/what-is-eigenlayer.md).

# What is EigenLayer?

The Ethereum blockchain, a cornerstone of the decentralized finance (DeFi) revolution, faces critical challenges: scalability limitations and mounting transaction fees. These hurdles impede user adoption and stifle innovation within the ecosystem. At the same time, up-and-coming layer 1s and layer 2s struggle to find adoption due to the concerns surrounding their security. 

EigenLayer emerges as a transformative solution for both of these problems. It is a scaling paradigm built upon the robust foundation of Ethereum that lets other applications borrow the security of Ethereum validators. 

## Why should you, as a user, care about EigenLayer?

Think of EigenLayer as a security blanket for other Web3 protocols. It lets them borrow the security of your staked ETH, making them more trustworthy and efficient. You, the ETH staker, get the following benefits: 

* **Earn extra rewards:** Keep your ETH working while getting paid for securing other apps.
* **Faster Ethereum:** More apps that can use Ethereum’s security independently = less congestion, meaning faster transactions & lower fees for everyone. ️

You can read more about EigenLayer [here](https://docs.eigenlayer.xyz/overview/).