Chainlink is presented as a versatile framework for creating decentralized oracle networks, each operating independently to connect smart contracts with external data and computation resources without cross-dependencies. This infrastructure is crucial for the growing smart contract ecosystem, which demands diverse data resources and computations that a single oracle network design cannot provide. Chainlink's heterogeneous network design allows for customized oracle networks tailored to specific use cases, enabling developers to adjust parameters such as node operators, data sources, and security settings. This flexibility reduces economic barriers for node operators, allowing them to focus on specific services, thereby expanding the reach and utility of smart contracts. Through real-world applications like price feeds, proof of reserve, and verifiable randomness, Chainlink demonstrates its capability to support a wide array of decentralized applications by integrating varied external datasets and computations.