Blockchain fundamentals and why it‘s disruptive for all industries

What is blockchain?

Blockchain is a method of storing data that makes it difficult or impossible to update, hack, or defraud the system. A blockchain is simply a digital ledger of transactions that is replicated and distributed across the blockchain’s complete network of computer systems.

A blockchain is a distributed database or ledger that is shared among the nodes of a computer network. As a database, a blockchain stores information electronically in digital format. Blockchains are best known for their crucial role in cryptocurrency systems, such as Bitcoin, for maintaining a secure and decentralized record of transactions. The innovation with a blockchain is that it guarantees the fidelity and security of a record of data and generates trust without the need for a trusted third party.

Blockchain technology is a decentralized, distributed ledger that stores the record of ownership of digital assets. Any data stored on blockchain is unable to be modified, making the technology a legitimate disruptor for industries like payments, cybersecurity and healthcare. Discover more on what it is, how it’s used and its history.

What are the benefits of blockchain technology?

Blockchains solutions with their decentralized approach can leverage smart contracts and enable members of the system to contract service outcomes and automate contract conclusion. A new member can signal her genuineness and participate in market transactions without incurring information asymmetry. For voting systems, blockchain technology can digitalize it, decrease voter tampering, and possibly improve voter participation. Furthermore, blockchain solutions offer numerous opportunities in the healthcare industry, such as sharing patient data among clinics and research institutes. Blockchain technology can address current concerns regarding security by leveraging cryptography, decentralization, and consensus mechanisms. With an universal exchangeable format, healthcare professionals and institutions can easily access sensitive data without putting it at risk.

A blockchain could serve as a public ledger for a massive number of devices, which would no longer need a central hub to mediate communication between them. The devices would be able to communicate with one another autonomously to manage software updates, bugs, or energy management. It can provide secure transactions, reduce compliance costs, and speed up data transfer processing. Blockchain technology can help contract management and audit the origin of a product.

How can blockchain be used in industry?

Blockchain isn’t only used for financial transactions. Due to its secure and transparent nature, the technology is versatile to needs beyond one area of expertise. Industries covering energy, logistics, education and more are utilizing the benefits of blockchain every day.

As companies use blockchain to drive greater transparency and veracity across the digital information ecosystem, they’re boosting awareness of the technology in sectors ranging from infrastructure to public policy. Blockchain technology has been used brilliantly in the banking industry. Financial institutions were unable to handle the additional demand following demonetization, stressing the necessity for a centralized specialist to handle financial transactions.