General FAQs
Answers to frequently asked questions about Algo, the Algorand protocol, and the Algorand Foundation
The Algo
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The maximum supply cap for Algo is 10 billion. While all 10 billion Algo were created at launch, the circulating supply will increase as pre-minted tokens unlock and are distributed.
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The circulating supply of Algo is available on the Algorand protocol metrics dashboard.
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Transaction fees are set very low, starting at 0.001 Algo, and are collected by the protocol and deposited in the fee sink.
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There are several wallets that support Algo, including both hardware and software options. To find the best wallet for your needs, consider factors like security, ease of use, and whether you require self-custody of your digital assets. Find out more on the Algorand wallets page and read the guide to wallet security and best practices.
Network & fees
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Running an Algorand node allows you to participate directly in the network by validating transactions and contributing to the security of the network. There are two main approaches to running an Algorand node: manual setup and one-click nodes. Choosing the right approach depends on your technical skills and desired level of control. Learn more about how to run a node.
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Yes. Algorand staking rewards are given to users who actively contribute to network security by bringing their Algo online to participate in consensus. When an account’s proposed block is written to the chain, if the proposing account has at least 30,000 Algo then it will then be given an amount of Algo as a reward. Users can also participate in securing the network and collect rewards via staking pools, liquid staking, and delegated staking options. Learn more here.
Rewarding block proposers is beneficial for the broader network as it incentivizes participation in consensus, driving greater decentralization and thus greater network security.
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No, sending and transacting with an ASA costs no more than sending and transacting with Algo. There is some indirect cost as the minimum balance required in the account must be higher if it also holds ASAs. If the account only holds Algo, then the minimum balance is 0.1 Algo. If there are ASAs, then the required minimum is:
0.1 ALGO * ( # of unique ASAs + 1)
For example, an Algorand account holding USDCa must have a minimum balance of 0.2 Algo. See the Asset overview for further information. -
At the moment, blockchain transaction fees are transferred to, and accumulate in, a dedicated account known as the fee sink. Community discussions are taking place about how such funds might be productively utilized in the future, most notably for the purpose of rewarding and securing consensus.
Algorand Foundation
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The Algorand Foundation supports Algorand’s rapidly growing ecosystem by providing a world-class developer environment, setting technical standards and supporting key infrastructure, offering comprehensive support to builders and entrepreneurs, and providing the infrastructure for decentralized governance.
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Algorand Foundation US, Inc., its affiliates, and subsidiaries (together, the “Foundation”) operate independently from Algorand Technologies. Algorand Foundation US, Inc. is a Delaware corporation with a team that works across the globe. Algorand Technologies is focused on the layer-1 development of the Algorand protocol.
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The Foundation holds Algo tokens as part of its treasury. For more information, see the Foundation accounts and a reconciliation of holdings that is documented in the quarterly Transparency Report.