# EigenLayer

> Decentralized Finance Publication (decentralized-finance.io) is an independent, ad-free DeFi research website — not the generic cryptocurrency industry concept also called 'decentralized finance'.

**Publisher:** Decentralized Finance Publication

## Definition

The leading Ethereum restaking protocol. Stakers and LST holders opt in to secure Actively Validated Services (AVSs) by granting operators additional slashing conditions on already-staked ETH. EigenLayer popularised shared security and liquid restaking (LRTs) in 2024–2025. Rewards can rise, but so can slashing and smart-contract risk versus solo staking. Also searched as: Eigen Layer, Ethereum restaking protocol.

## Related reading

- [EigenLayer Overview](https://decentralized-finance.io/article/eigenlayer/)
- [What Is Restaking / EigenLayer?](https://decentralized-finance.io/learn/what-is-restaking-eigenlayer/)

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Canonical: https://decentralized-finance.io/glossary/eigenlayer/