| Term | Plain English explanation |
| EPIZO node | A computer running the EPIZO software — your local offline knowledge server. |
| Command Center | The browser-based management interface for your node. Access it at http://localhost:8080. |
| Ollama | The software that runs AI language models locally on your hardware. Like ChatGPT, but completely offline. |
| RAG (Retrieval-Augmented Generation) | A technique that lets the AI search your local documents before answering — making it smarter and more accurate for your specific use case. |
| Qdrant | A database that stores information in a format that makes AI search fast. Think of it as the AI's index card library. |
| Kiwix | Software that stores and serves Wikipedia and other references in a compressed format that works offline. |
| ZIM file | A compressed archive containing an entire website (e.g., Wikipedia) that Kiwix can serve offline. Like a self-contained book. |
| Kolibri | An offline education platform that includes Khan Academy courses and supports multiple users with progress tracking. |
| ProtoMaps | Software that serves interactive maps from local files — no internet or Google Maps API required. |
| Docker | A system that packages each tool into an isolated container. Makes installation and updates reliable across different hardware. |
| BullMQ | A job queue system — manages background tasks like downloading large files or processing AI embeddings. |
| Ethereum | A decentralized blockchain network used for the protocol's smart contracts, token, and governance. Think of it as a global, tamper-proof computer. |
| Smart contract | A self-executing program on Ethereum. No human can change the rules once deployed — it runs exactly as written. |
| $EPIZO token | The native token of the EPIZO Protocol. Used for staking, earning rewards, and voting in governance. |
| Staking | Locking $EPIZO tokens as a commitment bond to participate as a node operator. You get them back if you maintain good behavior. |
| Slashing | Partial loss of staked tokens as a penalty for operating a node irresponsibly (e.g., going offline without warning). |
| DAO | Decentralized Autonomous Organization. A community governance structure where token holders vote on decisions — no CEO, no board. |
| TGE | Token Generation Event. The moment when $ EPIZO tokens are officially created and distributed. |
| Content collection | A package of offline content — e.g., English Wikipedia + medical references + regional maps — that nodes download and serve. |
| Content hash | A unique digital fingerprint of a content collection. If even one character of the content changes, the hash changes — making tampering detectable. |
| Mesh network | A type of network where devices communicate directly with each other (peer-to-peer) rather than through a central router. Works without internet. |
| Apache 2.0 | An open source software license that allows anyone to use, modify, and distribute the code freely, including for commercial purposes. |
| Emission | The rate at which new $ EPIZO tokens are released from the rewards pool into circulation. |
| Halving curve | An emission schedule where the rate of new tokens released decreases over time — similar to Bitcoin's halving but applied gradually. |
| Treasury | The DAO's collective fund of $ EPIZO tokens, used for grants, development, audits, and operational costs. |