> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.ecosphereprime.com/ecosphere/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.ecosphereprime.com/ecosphere/technology/smart-nodes-on-hedera.md).

# Smart Nodes On Hedera

### Hbarsuite

Ecosphere use Hbarsuite's smart node technology to deliver:

* security
* decentralization
* performance

Smart-Nodes are highly customizable programs, deployed inside virtual images which can be hosted and decentralized through cloud computing environments (ex. [Google cloud](https://cloud.google.com/), [Amazon Web Services](https://aws.amazon.com/)).



Their purpose is to create a decentralized network of services that leverage the Hedera Layer-1 functionalities, which are much more efficient and cost-effective compared to Ethereum-based smart contract environments.

### Hedera

Hedera Hashgraph is a Level 1 distributed ledger. Ecosphere chose to build on Hedera because:

1. It has a highly scalable architecture
2. It has one of the fastest times to finality
3. It is carbon negative and aspires to be a leader in ESG
4. Its governing council is made up of global institutions

For more information on Hedera, please visit <https://hedera.com/>&#x20;