// GLOSSARY -- WEB3 INFRASTRUCTURE

What is ZeroDev?

1 min read Updated

ZeroDev is a smart account infrastructure platform that provides the Kernel smart account (a modular ERC-4337 account), along with bundler, paymaster, and session key services for building programmable wallet applications.

WHY IT MATTERS

ZeroDev's Kernel smart account is one of the most flexible ERC-4337 implementations. Its modular architecture lets you install validators (custom signing logic), executors (automated actions), and hooks (pre/post-transaction checks) — building custom wallet behavior from composable pieces.

For agent developers, ZeroDev provides the infrastructure stack: create smart accounts via API, issue session keys with custom permissions, sponsor gas through paymasters, and batch multiple operations into single transactions. All with a developer-friendly SDK.

The session key feature is particularly relevant for agents. You can create a session key that allows the agent to execute specific operations (e.g., USDC transfers up to $1,000) for a limited time — then the key automatically expires.

HOW POLICYLAYER USES THIS

PolicyLayer integrates with ZeroDev smart accounts — using Kernel's modular architecture to embed spending policies as validation hooks. PolicyLayer rules are enforced at the smart account level for tamper-proof agent controls.

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS

What is the Kernel smart account?
Kernel is ZeroDev's modular ERC-4337 smart account implementation. It supports pluggable validators, executors, and hooks — making it one of the most customizable smart account options available.
How do ZeroDev session keys work?
You create a session key with specific permissions (which contracts, which functions, what amounts) and a time limit. The session key can sign transactions that match these permissions. When it expires, it becomes invalid.
What chains does ZeroDev support?
All major EVM chains: Ethereum, Base, Arbitrum, Optimism, Polygon, and more. Infrastructure (bundlers, paymasters) is deployed across these chains.

FURTHER READING

Enforce policies on every tool call

Intercept is the open-source MCP proxy that enforces YAML policies on AI agent tool calls. No code changes needed.

npx -y @policylayer/intercept
github.com/policylayer/intercept →
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