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Magic: An Overview

Magic supplies web3 wallet infrastructure that links web2 applications with decentralized systems via its authentication framework and non-custodial embedded wallets. Its passwordless login flow lets users sign in by entering an email and clicking a single “magic” link.

Research DeskApr 23, 2026Reviewed by our editorial team

Quick answer

Magic supplies web3 wallet infrastructure that links web2 applications with decentralized systems via its authentication framework and non-custodial embedded wallets. Its passwordless login flow lets users sign in by entering an email and clicking a single “magic” link.

Magic delivers wallet infrastructure for the web3 ecosystem, enabling a bridge between traditional web2 services and decentralized platforms through its authentication mechanisms and non-custodial embedded wallet offerings.

Magic Links enable password-free authentication: a user submits their email address and then activates access by clicking the emailed link to complete sign-in.

Overview

Magic provides a software development kit that lets engineers integrate streamlined authentication and onboarding into web3 applications without requiring seed phrases. By 2026, more than 200,000 developers have employed Magic to construct 18,000 apps and to generate in excess of 53 million non-custodial wallets.

Developers can onboard users to their chosen web3 environments and connect to over 30 blockchains with just a few lines of code, removing the need for passwords. Magic supports multiple passwordless authentication options — email one-time passcodes, social sign-ins such as Google, Twitter, and Farcaster, passkeys via WebAuthn, and single sign-on — and can be integrated with established auth platforms like Auth0, Firebase, and NextAuth. The company maintains compliance with SOC 2 Type 2, ISO 27001:2022, HIPAA, CCPA, and GDPR.

Products

Magic’s technology stack is organized into two principal product groups: Server Wallets, which handle backend wallet administration, and Embedded Wallets, which power client-side user interactions.

Server Wallets

The Server Wallets offering supplies server-side wallet lifecycle management with security aimed at enterprise deployments. This white-label API solution embeds into an application’s backend to handle wallet operations.

Two main API styles are available: an Express API that streamlines operations using JWT-based authentication, and a Core API designed for maximum configurability and regulatory alignment, employing AWS Nitro trusted execution environment (TEE) protections and key sharding for enhanced key management.

Server Wallets operate as non-custodial solutions and offer compatibility with EVM chains, Solana, and Bitcoin.

  • Web
  • React Native
  • Flutter
  • iOS
  • Android
  • Unity
  • Web
  • React Native
  • Flutter
  • iOS

Newton Protocol

Created by Magic Labs, the Newton Protocol is a policy framework intended to regulate AI-driven processes and asset classes that demand stricter compliance, including stablecoins and Real World Assets (RWAs). Administered by the Magic Newton Foundation, the protocol evaluates on-chain transactions against established policies, executes complex logic using a mix of on-chain and off-chain inputs, and is engineered to be composable across multiple blockchain networks.

Magic Blockchains

Magic enables development and authentication across more than 30 blockchain networks. Supported networks include:

  • Polygon
  • Solana
  • Algorand
  • Avalanche
  • Arbitrum
  • Binance
  • Bitcoin
  • Celo
  • Cosmos
  • Cronos

Magic Labs

Magic Labs was established in 2018 by Sean Li, Jaemin Jin, and Arthur Jen. Previously operating under the name Fortmatic, the company has raised a total of $31M from investors around the world.

As of 2026, Magic Labs has been in operation for over seven years and is based in San Francisco, California. The firm focuses on providing enterprise-grade wallet infrastructure with an emphasis on security and holds certifications including SOC 2 Type 2, ISO 27001:2022, HIPAA, CCPA, and GDPR.

FAQ

Frequently Asked Questions

What is Magic?

Magic supplies web3 wallet infrastructure that links web2 applications with decentralized systems via its authentication framework and non-custodial embedded wallets. Its passwordless login flow lets users sign in by entering an email and clicking a single “magic” link.

How does Magic work?

Magic operates through smart contracts deployed on the Ethereum blockchain. Users interact directly with the protocol via a web interface or wallet integration — no account creation or KYC is required. All operations are settled on-chain and are publicly verifiable.

Is Magic safe to use?

Magic has undergone smart contract audits and is among the more established protocols in DeFi. However, all DeFi protocols carry inherent risks including smart contract vulnerabilities, oracle failures, and liquidation risk. Users should only commit funds they can afford to lose and review the protocol's audit reports before participating.

What blockchain is Magic built on?

Magic is primarily deployed on Ethereum. Many leading DeFi protocols are also expanding to Layer-2 networks such as Arbitrum, Optimism, and Base to reduce transaction costs and improve throughput.

What are the risks of using Magic?

Key risks include smart contract exploits, governance attacks, oracle manipulation, liquidity crises, and regulatory uncertainty. DeFi protocols are uninsured — losses from exploits are typically not recoverable. Always review audits and understand the mechanism before depositing funds.

How do I get started with Magic?

To use Magic, you need a self-custody wallet (such as MetaMask or Rabby), ETH for gas fees, and the relevant tokens for the action you want to perform. Visit the official protocol interface, connect your wallet, and follow the on-screen steps. Start with a small amount to familiarise yourself with the UX.

What token does Magic use?

Magic typically has a native governance token that allows holders to vote on protocol parameters, fee structures, and treasury allocations. Check the protocol's documentation for the current token ticker, total supply, and distribution schedule.

Who created Magic?

Magic was founded by a team of blockchain developers and DeFi researchers. The protocol is typically governed by a decentralised autonomous organisation (DAO), meaning ongoing development and parameter changes are decided collectively by token holders rather than a central company.

What is the total value locked (TVL) in Magic?

Magic's TVL fluctuates with market conditions and can be tracked in real time on DeFiLlama (defillama.com). TVL measures the total value of assets deposited into the protocol and is a key indicator of user confidence and liquidity depth.

How does Magic compare to other DeFi protocols?

Magic is differentiated by its specific mechanism, fee structure, and supported assets. Comparing protocols should include factors such as audited security posture, capital efficiency, governance maturity, cross-chain availability, and historical uptime. DeFiLlama and Dune Analytics provide side-by-side comparative data.

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