Architecture
This page explains the XO architecture at a high level.
XO is built as a modular trust continuum rather than a single monolithic application. The system is designed so that different layers can evolve independently while still reinforcing one another.
Tip
If you want a more narrative system view, also see XO Universe Map. If you want the domain-facing version, see XO Domain Constellation.
High-level flow
%% XO architecture overview
flowchart TD
subgraph Core[Core Trust Layer]
Vault[Vault\nStorage + Signatures]
Pulse[Pulse\nStory Publishing]
Agent[Agent\nAutomation + Routing]
end
subgraph Activation[Activation Layer]
Drops[Drops\nArtifacts + Activation]
Traits[Traits\nEvolution + Identity]
Bridge[Bridge\nDigital-Physical Verification]
end
subgraph Public[Public Record Layer]
Ledger[Ledger\nPublic Record]
end
Vault --> Pulse
Pulse --> Drops
Drops --> Traits
Traits --> Ledger
Agent --> Vault
Agent --> Pulse
Agent --> Ledger
Bridge --> Ledger
Bridge --> Drops
# Architecture
This page explains the XO architecture at a high level.
XO is built as a modular trust continuum rather than a single monolithic application. The system is designed so that different layers can evolve independently while still reinforcing one another.
!!! tip
If you want a more narrative system view, also see [XO Universe Map](xo-universe-map.md). If you want the domain-facing version, see [XO Domain Constellation](domain-constellation.md).
## High-level Flow
```mermaid
%% XO architecture overview
flowchart TD
subgraph Core[Core Trust Layer]
Vault[Vault\nStorage + Signatures]
Pulse[Pulse\nStory Publishing]
Agent[Agent\nAutomation + Routing]
end
subgraph Activation[Activation Layer]
Drops[Drops\nArtifacts + Activation]
Traits[Traits\nEvolution + Identity]
Bridge[Bridge\nDigital-Physical Verification]
end
subgraph Public[Public Record Layer]
Ledger[Ledger\nPublic Record]
end
Vault --> Pulse
Pulse --> Drops
Drops --> Traits
Traits --> Ledger
Agent --> Vault
Agent --> Pulse
Agent --> Ledger
Bridge --> Ledger
Bridge --> Drops
This architecture groups XO into readable zones so the trust core, activation mechanisms, and public record layer can be understood at a glance.
Core Modules
Vault
Vault is the security and signing layer. It is responsible for storage, sealing, signatures, and trust anchors.
Pulse
Pulse is the publishing and narrative layer. It turns activity into visible updates, stories, and public continuity.
Drops
Drops are the activation layer. They package artifacts, experiences, and releases into forms people can actually receive, mint, or interact with.
Traits
Traits are the evolution layer. They allow identities, collectibles, and artifacts to gain additional meaning or state over time.
Ledger
Ledger is the public record layer. It preserves provenance, history, and verifiable continuity.
Agent
Agent is the orchestration layer. It helps automate flows, route events, and coordinate the different parts of the system.
Bridge
Bridge is the digital-physical layer. It connects objects, seals, QR or NFC references, and real-world verification back into the trust continuum.
Design Principle
Each XO module should be understandable on its own, but more powerful when linked to the others.