Notes on Apr 5, 2022
12:15 minutes
Crypto Academy - What is Blockchain?
What is Blockchain?
The technology behind Bitcoin but much more than meets the eye
A digital ledger that can be programmed to record not just financial transactions but virtually everything of value (Financial, Medical Asset records).
In simple terms a continuously updated record of who holds what in a decentralized distributed database (Ledger).
How does it work?
Data is stored in blocks that are permanently linked together forming a chain (Blockchain).
All data is stored in a new block records can’t be re-written
Each block contains a timestamp and link to the previous block
Similar to the general financial ledger
Decentralized Network
Data is not stored by one central authority or system
Blockchain is a decentralized distributed network of data
This network is essentially a chain of computers that must all approve the data before it can be verified and recorded.
Creating Trust
A puzzle must be solved to create a block
The solution is then shared to the network of computers (Proof of Work)
The network then verifies the POF and if correct added to the chain
Creating a database of information that can’t be tampered with therefore creating TRUST
Blockchain Technology
Public Blockchains
Private Blockchains
Hybrid Blockchains
Possibilities are endless though the advancement of blockchain technology
Giving the world a more transparent and trustworthy database
All blocks are encrypted in a special way, so everyone can have access to all the information but only a user who owns a special cryptographic key are able to add a new record to a particular chain.
As long as you remain the only person who knows the key, no one can manipulate your transaction. In addition, cryptography is used to guarantee synchronized copies of the blockchain on each computer (or node) in the network.