Blockchain technology unleashed - Part 1
Blockchain technology, for those of you who have not yet ventured into the area of new cryptocurrency, is a popular virtual investment option that offers encrypted record of transaction between two parties to protect investors. If you are ready to get started with this relatively new technology, it may be time to become familiar with some of the interworkings of blockchain technology. Let’s begin with some basics, in case you are new to the concept.
The Interworkings of Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology refers to a software program for managing digital assets in the form of cryptocurrency, or encrypted transactions (or blocks) that are efficient, verifiable, and nonchangeable. This technology generally relies on tokens, or digital coins such as bitcoins, in a decentralized environment. Blockchain is often referred to as a digital ledger for recording transactions within a secure private network. Some common terms associated with programming block chain tech include:
Cryptocurrency
A cryptocurrency is a form of exchange much like standard currencies, but rather a digital currency made for exchange using cryptography for security and anonymity. Some examples of cryptocurrency include Bitcoin, Ethereum, Ripple, Litecoin, Monero, Zcash, and hundreds more.
Cryptography
The study and practice of secure communication using encrypted mediums in order to prevent entities from gaining access. We generally think of cryptography for use with electronic commerce, digital currency, payment processing using microchips, and military communication protocols, to name a few.
Bitcoin
Bitcoin (sometimes called bit coin) is one of the first cryptocurrency systems, also known as decentralized digital currency, invented by Satoshi Nakamoto and released in 2009. Transactions are exchanged between users, substantiated by network nodes, and recorded in a public digital ledger known as a blockchain. Bitcoins are actually created as a reward for mining.
Mining
Blockchain technology uses a recordkeeping service called cryptocurrency mining in order to provide consistency, thoroughness, and security through block transactions. These blocks contain a verifiable digital signature in order to keep them from attack or alteration.
Digital wallet
When bitcoins are transacted, a wallet is the term used to store required information relating to bitcoins. Essentially, a wallet stores digital credentials for an individual’s bitcoin holdings for spending. A wallet uses public key cryptography to secure and verify transactions. Only a person owning the private cryptographic key can prove the wallet’s ownership.
Smart Contract
Computer protocols are required for cryptocurrency transactions, and these are called smart contracts. This blockchain programming contract is put in place to auto-manage, verify, and administer transaction guidelines. A smart contract may include prewritten code for various types of cryptocurrency transactions.
While there is much more to learn about blockchain tech, a basic understanding of these terms will help you when you decide to make a blockchain investment. Serious investors may want to tap into the Internet to study important details, or find a reputable resource to guide you.
How Is Blockchain Technology Used
Blockchain technology is used for many types of applications including document management, digital assets, personal assets, real estate, car leasing, rentals, and more. A blockchain database is essential for Bitcoin and other types of digital currency systems. Transactions, generally collected in blocks at 10-minute intervals, are located in a digital distributed ledger. Transactions transfer bitcoin balance ownerships in blocks.
Common Trends in Blockchain Technology
As blockchain technology becomes more familiar to global companies and investors alike, there are some common trends surfacing:
Increased potential for business entities as blockchain technology continues to serve financial and non-financial transactions.
Apps are evolving to exclude the middleman and result in increased direct profits entrepreneurs are beginning to gain independence and have better control over financial decisions to grow their companies.
Standardized regulations are forming for seamless transactions across borders.
Most industry banks are shown to be making blockchain projects a high priority, changing the financial landscape even more.
Organizations are finally becoming educated, which will lead to increased worldwide interest.
You or your organization may be interested in a cryptocurrency exchange opportunity that can enhance your financial portfolio. If you are ready to learn more, stay tuned for Blockchain Technology Unleashed - Part II, covering why to invest and how to get started. If you don’t want to wait, the team at Avantize has the knowledge and experience to guide you for a worthwhile blockchain investment. The cryptocurrency market is one of the fastest-growing worldwide endeavors. Now may be a great time to get involved.