A shared ledger
Instead of relying on one database owner, many blockchains distribute the ledger across network participants. Each network defines who can propose or validate blocks and under which rules.
Consensus
Consensus determines which state of the ledger the network accepts. Proof of Work, Proof of Stake and other models make different trade-offs in security, cost and operation.
Why blocks are linked
Blocks contain cryptographic references to earlier blocks. This makes changes to past history detectable and helps protect the integrity of the recorded chain.
Blockchain is not the same as an investment
A useful technology does not automatically mean the associated token must rise in value. Separating technology, token economics and market price leads to better decisions.
FAQ
Are Bitcoin and blockchain the same thing?
No. Bitcoin is a network and protocol that uses a blockchain. Many other blockchains exist with different rules and use cases.
Can a blockchain be changed?
New transactions can update the current state, but rewriting history depends on the network's consensus design and security model.
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