Learn the basics of how Akash Network works in 5 minutes.
How Akash Works
Akash is a decentralized marketplace connecting people who need compute resources with data centers that provide them.
Key Terms
Deployment
A request for compute resources. You describe what you need (CPU, memory, storage) using SDL (Stack Definition Language).
Provider
A data center offering compute resources on Akash. Providers bid competitively to host your deployment.
Lease
An agreement between you and a provider. Locks in pricing and resources for your deployment.
SDL
Stack Definition Language - a YAML file that describes your deployment:
- What container image to run
- How much CPU, memory, and storage you need
- What ports to expose
- How much you’re willing to pay
Escrow
Funds held to pay for your deployment, in ACT (a USD-pegged compute credit). The provider is paid automatically per block from that escrow.
Who fills it depends on how you deploy. With your own wallet, through Console Air or the CLI, you fund escrow yourself and top it up with ACT (or AKT when the circuit breaker is in effect). On the managed Akash Console you never touch it: you add credits to your account and Console funds each deployment for you. See How Funding Works.
Basic Workflow
1. Create Deployment
Write an SDL file describing your app and resources needed.
2. Review Bids
Providers submit bids with their pricing. Choose the one you prefer.
3. Accept Bid
Create a lease with the selected provider.
4. App Runs
Provider pulls your container image and starts your app.
5. Automatic Payment
Your escrow pays the provider per block (~6 seconds) in ACT.
Deployment Options
Akash Console (Easiest)
- Visual web interface
- $1 free trial (no wallet needed)
- Perfect for beginners
CLI (Most Control)
- Command-line interface
- Use your own wallet
- Best for automation
SDK (Programmatic)
- JavaScript/TypeScript or Go
- Integrate into your apps
- Build custom tools
Resource Units
- CPU: Measured in units (1 unit = 1 thread)
- Memory: Measured in Mi (Mebibytes) or Gi (Gibibytes)
- Storage: Measured in Mi or Gi
- GPU: Measured in units with specific model requirements
Example: 0.5 CPU, 512Mi memory, 1Gi storage
Pricing
Akash is significantly cheaper than traditional cloud providers:
- Basic web app: ~$1-3/month
- Small API: ~$5-10/month
- GPU workload (RTX 4090): ~$50-150/month
Prices vary by provider and demand.
What You Can Update
Container image version
Environment variables
Container commands
Cannot update: CPU, Memory, Storage amounts - Must create new deployment
Learn More
Want to understand Akash in depth?
→ Detailed Core Concepts - Deep dive into deployments, providers, SDL, private containers, persistent storage, IP leases, and more.
Next Steps
- Quick Start → - Deploy your first app
- SDL Reference → - Learn SDL syntax
- Discord → - Get help from the community