Juno is a decentralized, public, and permissionless network designed to facilitate cross-chain smart contracts. Built on the Cosmos SDK and utilizing the Tendermint PoS consensus mechanism, it offers a scalable and interoperable infrastructure for developers. Juno enables the deployment of smart contracts using programming languages like Rust via CosmWasm, promoting self-sovereignty, interoperability, and sustainable development. Its ecosystem encourages building innovative web3 applications, including DeFi, NFTs, and other dApps, thereby contributing to a decentralized internet.

Juno utilizes CosmWasm to enable WebAssembly (WASM) virtual machines, which allow smart contracts to be written in multiple programming languages, with Rust being a popular choice. CosmWasm compiles these languages into a secure and portable virtual machine environment, facilitating efficient and scalable execution of smart contracts on the blockchain. This approach mitigates common issues associated with first-generation smart contracts, such as scalability and cost inefficiencies, making Juno a developer-friendly platform for decentralized applications.

The Juno network offers several advantages for developers, including scalability, interoperability, and a developer-friendly environment. By using the Cosmos SDK and Tendermint consensus, Juno ensures security and efficiency while supporting cross-chain functionality. It allows for low-cost smart contract deployment and execution, addressing typical bottlenecks in blockchain development. Additionally, its support for CosmWasm smart contracts written in Rust or other languages enhances flexibility and performance, making it ideal for creating secure and scalable decentralized applications, including DeFi and NFTs.

Juno distinguishes itself from platforms like Ethereum by focusing on cross-chain interoperability and using the Cosmos SDK for enhanced scalability and lower costs. While Ethereum is known for its broad dApp ecosystem and smart contract functionality, it often faces challenges in terms of scalability and transaction fees. Juno's use of the Tendermint consensus and CosmWasm for multi-language smart contract support provides a more flexible and efficient environment for developers, especially those seeking an interoperable solution across different blockchain networks.

The $JUNO token is integral to the Juno network, serving multiple purposes. It is used for governance, where token holders participate in on-chain voting to guide network decisions and implementation of changes. Additionally, $JUNO is used for staking to secure the network, ensuring its safety and efficiency through the proof-of-stake consensus mechanism. It also serves as the medium for paying transaction fees, facilitating network operations. This multi-functional use case of $JUNO reinforces its importance in maintaining and operating the Juno blockchain.

Should developers face issues when deploying smart contracts on Juno, they are advised to first consult the comprehensive documentation provided by the Juno community, which offers guidelines and best practices. Joining Juno's active community forums and developer networks, such as chats and discussion boards, can provide peer support and solutions. Additionally, engaging directly with experienced developers and contributors within the Juno ecosystem can facilitate troubleshooting, ensuring a smooth deployment process for distributed applications on the platform.