The Cardano blockchain is a 3rd generation blockchain platform that was designed with a collaborative peer-to-peer review system, It aims to improve upon prior blockchain systems to enable larger and more sustainable uses of the technology.
Cardano was built with a governance model that is based on collaboration. This allows the platform to evolve quickly and adapt to the changing needs of its users. Unlike many other blockchain projects, it also installed a treasury system to fund the ongoing development needs that may arise as it moves forward.
The Cardano blockchain uses a unique proof of stake algorithm called Ouroboros and has a protocol that consists of two layers, a settlement layer and a control layer. The settlement layer is designed to perform accounting functions, while the control layer is tasked with running smart contracts. The platform tries to balance the privacy concerns of users with the requirements of regulators in an effective way.
Cardano uses the Haskell programming language and is fueled by the ADA coin

ChainLink is developing the LINK Network, which will enable connected smart contracts. LINK will provide smart contracts with a variety of external data and access to APIs. ChainLink's goal is to solve the connectivity problem that plagues smart contract based systems, and discourages mass adoption. Many decentralized applications are unable to connect with important external data sources due to limitations involving their consensus protocols. The LINK network wants to connect their smart contracts with external systems and APIs by using secure middleware.