Flash Infrastructure
Learn about the technical architecture powering Flash's Bitcoin, Lightning, and NOSTR capabilities
How Flash Works Under the Hood
Flash combines open-source technologies to create a seamless financial application. This page explains the technical infrastructure powering Flash.
Core Technology Stack
1. Bitcoin Core Integration
Flash connects to the Bitcoin network through:
- Bitcoin Core nodes for blockchain validation
- Electrum Server for efficient data access
- Address indexing for fast balance lookups
This provides on-chain Bitcoin functionality with self-custody withdrawals, transaction verification, and deposit detection.
2. Lightning Network Implementation
Flash uses LND for Lightning functionality:
- LND nodes provide core Lightning capabilities
- Custom middleware manages channel liquidity
Enabling instant payments, sub-cent micropayments, and cross-border transactions.
3. NOSTR Protocol Integration
Flash incorporates NOSTR via:
- Multiple relay connections for censorship resistance
- Client-side key management for identity control
- End-to-end encryption for private messages
Powering direct messaging, group chats, and business communication.
4. eCash System
Flash implements a chaumian eCash system offering:
- Full transaction privacy
- Off-chain scaling
- Offline payment capabilities
5. BTCPay Server Integration
Flash leverages BTCPay Server for:
- Flash Cards payment processing
- Rewards system management
- Merchant services infrastructure
System Architecture
Flash’s architecture is designed for reliability, scalability, and security with these key components:
Server Components
- API Layer, Authentication Service, Lightning Service
- Bitcoin Service, NOSTR Relay, eCash Mint
- Database Cluster, Analytics Engine, BTCPay Server
Client Components
- Secure Key Storage, Local Database, NOSTR Client
- Backup Systems, Payment Logic
Security Model
Flash employs multiple security layers:
- HSM-protected nodes for Lightning and Bitcoin keys
- Multi-signature wallets for cold storage reserves
- Regular security audits and encrypted databases
- Rate limiting and anomaly detection systems
Open Source Components
Flash builds upon and contributes to:
- LND - Lightning Network implementation
- Galoy - Bitcoin banking infrastructure
- NOSTR - Decentralized social protocol
- Breez SDK - Lightning SDK components
- Cashu - eCash implementation
- BTCPay Server - Self-hosted payment processor
Developer Resources
Flash is committed to open-source development and welcomes community contributions.