> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.humanity.org/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.humanity.org/understanding-humanity/overall-system-architecture.md).

# Overall System Architecture

### Humanity’s architecture is structured into three layers:

1. **User Interface Layer**:
   * **Components**: Web/mobile apps, dashboard.
   * **Functionality**: Facilitates user interaction and provides a friendly interface for registration, claim requests, and monitoring progress along with serving and processing backend data.
2. **Protocol Layer**:
   * **Components**: Decentralized databases (IPFS), Ethereum blockchain nodes.
   * **Functionality**: Validates user data against stored credentials, executes Smart Contract rules, and records all transactions on-chain.
3. **Smart Contract Layer**:
   * **Components**: VCC and RBC smart contracts.
   * **Functionality**: Automate credential issuance, reward tracking, and payout processing.

<figure><img src="/files/HtiuHesvBFYAdK1ELS1y" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


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