Axelar Core is the main application of the Axelar Network, built on the Cosmos SDK. It powers a decentralized interoperability protocol that connects EVM-compatible chains (Ethereum, Polygon, Avalanche, and more), IBC-enabled Cosmos chains, and CosmWasm smart contract platforms into a unified messaging fabric.Documentation Index
Fetch the complete documentation index at: https://mintlify.com/axelarnetwork/axelar-core/llms.txt
Use this file to discover all available pages before exploring further.
Introduction
Understand what Axelar Core is, how it works, and who it’s for
Quickstart
Build and run your first Axelar node in minutes
Architecture
Deep dive into the module architecture and cross-chain flow
CLI Reference
Complete reference for all axelard commands and flags
Run a Node
Whether you’re a validator joining the active set or a developer running a local node, get up and running quickly.Build the binary
Compile
axelard from source or download a verified release binary. Static builds are recommended for portability.Initialize and configure
Run
axelard init to generate your node’s keys and configuration files, then tune app.toml and config.toml for your environment.Start the node
Launch the full node with
axelard start. Validators also run the vald sidecar daemon to monitor external chains and participate in signing.Core Modules
Axelar Core’s interoperability is built on a set of custom Cosmos SDK modules working together.Nexus
The routing hub — manages cross-chain messages, asset registration, and chain state
EVM
EVM chain integration — gateway contracts, command batching, and event confirmation
Axelarnet
IBC connectivity — links Cosmos chains via IBC paths and routes transfers
Multisig
Threshold signing — manages key generation, rotation, and signing sessions
Governance & Operations
Governance
On-chain parameter changes, chain activation, and governance key management
Chain Management
Register EVM and Cosmos chains, deploy tokens, and manage maintainers
Upgrades
Software upgrade process, migration guides, and release verification
Security
Binary verification, bug bounty, and responsible disclosure