Learn about $LOCK

$LOCK is the token that powers Gridlock’s decentralized security system. It gives people a way to unlock Pro features without a subscription and rewards those that make the system stronger.

You don’t need $LOCK to use Gridlock. The app works out of the box with all core features, and you can upgrade to Pro anytime through a standard subscription.

But if you want lifetime access to Pro or want to contribute to the system’s growth, $LOCK offers another path.

What is $LOCK actually for?

$LOCK unlocks Gridlock Pro with no subscription. Hold 5,000 $LOCK to access all Pro features—no monthly fees, no expiration. Keep that balance, and Pro stays unlocked.

That’s the core reason most people want $LOCK.

It’s also how Gridlock recognizes meaningful contributions. Whether you run a guardian node, contribute to the community, or support the ecosystem in other ways—you’ll receive $LOCK for strengthening the network. It’s optional, but it keeps the system resilient and community-powered.

Where does $LOCK come from?

$LOCK is available through a bonding curve—a public smart contract that adjusts price as demand grows. There’s no fixed cap and no insider pricing. New tokens are only minted when users actively buy in.

Before launch, a one-time genesis mint created the initial supply. 20% went to the team and early contributors who built Gridlock. Team tokens have the longest vesting period to ensure they stay aligned with the project over time. The rest supports infrastructure, security, and community incentives.

You can learn how to earn $LOCK by helping the network—see the “Earn some $LOCK” page for more.

What Is the Bonding Curve?

The bonding curve is a public smart contract that sets the price and supply of $LOCK based on demand. There’s no fixed price or external marketplace—the curve adjusts automatically:

• As people buy, the price goes up

• As people sell, the price goes down

• All funds go to the protocol, not to any individual or team wallet

This model is the opposite of the typical pump-and-dump token launch. There are no private discounts, no stealth unlocks, and no way for insiders to front-run the public. The bonding curve gives everyone the same transparent access, with pricing that reflects actual demand in real time. It’s the safest and most fair way to release a utility token—backed by real technology, tied to real use, and built to support a working network, not just speculation.

What does it mean to contribute?

There are a few ways people contribute:

• Running a guardian node — lightweight software that helps protect other users’ wallets
• Submitting open-source code — fixes, features, or tools that improve the network
• Helping with non-code stuff — translations, docs, content, testing, feedback

All contributions are reviewed, and those that help the network grow are acknowledged with $LOCK.

You don’t need to be a developer. You don’t need to spend hours every day. You just need to do something that helps.

How to Get Started:

• Explore earning opportunities like running a guardian node or contributing to the open-source codebase.
• Download and use the Gridlock app without any token commitments.