LINK is the native cryptocurrency of Chainlink, a decentralized oracle network established in 2017 by Sergey Nazarov and Steve Ellis. Operating as an ERC-677 token on the Ethereum blockchain, LINK facilitates secure and reliable connections between smart contracts and off-chain data sources. Within the Chainlink ecosystem, LINK serves multiple purposes: compensating node operators for data retrieval and delivery, acting as collateral to ensure accurate oracle services, and incentivizing the maintenance of high service standards. This utility underpins Chainlink's mission to enhance blockchain interoperability and expand the practical applications of smart contracts across various industries.