> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.seda.xyz/home/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.seda.xyz/home/tech/seda-architecture/seda-network-architecture/what-is-a-data-request.md). # What is a Data Request? Data Requests (DRs) are a foundational component of the SEDA protocol, enabling secure and decentralized access to off-chain data. They act as a bridge between blockchain networks and real-world information, allowing smart contracts and other blockchain applications to query and utilize data in a trust-less manner. Data requests consist of instructions on how data should be fetched and aggregated. A Data Request (DR) in the SEDA protocol is a structured query that allows blockchain applications to obtain verifiable, real-world data in a decentralized manner. DRs enable the SEDA network to facilitate secure interactions between smart contracts and off-chain data sources by managing the process of data collection, verification, and delivery. This ensures that the data brought on-chain is accurate, trustworthy, and resistant to tampering, which is crucial for the reliable operation of decentralized applications. ### Why Are Data Requests Important? Blockchains are inherently secure and immutable but are isolated from external data. This isolation poses challenges for decentralized applications and protocols that depend on real-world information to function effectively. SEDA's Data Requests address this challenge by providing a secure and decentralized standard to access off-chain data across any blockchain network. They enable smart contracts to interact with external data sources in a trustless manner, ensuring that the information is accurate and tamper-resistant. This capability expands the potential of blockchain applications, allowing them to operate with reliable real-world data regardless of the underlying chain. --- # Agent Instructions This documentation is published with GitBook. GitBook is the documentation platform designed so that both humans and AI agents can read, navigate, and reason over technical content effectively. Learn more at gitbook.com. ## Querying This Documentation If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question. Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter, and the optional `goal` query parameter: ``` GET https://docs.seda.xyz/home/tech/seda-architecture/seda-network-architecture/what-is-a-data-request.md?ask=&goal= ``` `ask` is the immediate question: it should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language. `goal` is optional and describes the broader end goal you are ultimately trying to accomplish on behalf of the user. GitBook uses it to tailor the answer towards what is most useful for that goal. The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation. Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.