What is CLINK?

CLINK (Common Lightning Interface for Nostr Keys) defines Nostr-native standards for Lightning Network interactions, leveraging the protocol's built-in transport, identity, and encryption. This enables secure communication between Lightning nodes, wallets, and applications without traditional web infrastructure dependencies, while remaining web-friendly and facilitating self-custody.

This novel use of Nostr delivers a greatly enhanced user experience and unlocks new use-cases versus the status quo of things like LNURL, Bolt12, and NWC—without compromising sovereignty.

CLINK Protocol Diagram

Why CLINK?

Existing Lightning interaction methods often require web servers, pre-shared secrets, or slow onion messages—creating friction, security risks, and barriers to adoption. CLINK leverages Nostr's cryptographic identity and event-based messaging to:

  • Simplify user experience with direct, spontaneous interactions using familiar Nostr identifiers (NIP-05 addresses).
  • Reduce infrastructure dependency by operating entirely over Nostr where desired.
  • Enhance security by using signed events and web-of-trust identity.
  • Foster a native ecosystem for Lightning and Nostr-powered apps.

Explore the Protocol Demos

CLINK Offers

Static Payment Codes

Request invoices over Nostr with a reusable string. No web server needed.

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CLINK Debits

Direct Payment Requests

Authorize external Nostr accounts to pay invoices without pre-shared secrets.

Try Debits →

CLINK Manage

Delegated Permissions

Enable marketplace apps to automatically manage payment offers for your node.

Try Manage →

Learn More