> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://dione-protocol.gitbook.io/dione-whitepaper/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://dione-protocol.gitbook.io/dione-whitepaper/technology/subnets.md).

# Subnets

To maintain our security, we do not use sharding. Instead, we have adopted the concept of subnetworks. Each subnet can be considered a standalone blockchain running with its own set of validators and customized rules that all its validators must abide by.

<figure><img src="https://3744171363-files.gitbook.io/~/files/v0/b/gitbook-x-prod.appspot.com/o/spaces%2Fw308hq6NLJoFpEpj0szN%2Fuploads%2FLb0EQJBuivGhkhqplaoD%2FChains%20(3).jpg?alt=media&amp;token=0b20a8bc-894c-4b75-810e-0392da710477" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

To join a subnet, the potential validators must deposit a minimum required collateral in addition to complying with the rules set forth by the subnet.

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