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

# Overview

Helios’s architecture is built to marry Bitcoin’s robust security and finality with the expressiveness of smart contracts. The solution is a layered design that adds an **EVM-compatible execution environment on Bitcoin** and a decentralized custody mechanism. This section dives into the **MIDL execution layer**, the **Bitcoin settlement flow**, and how Helios achieves **one-step user operations with self-custody**.