FREE Certified Blockchain Professional (CBCP) Blockchain Fundamental Questions and Answers
What assumptions does blockchain security typically rely on?
Blockchain security typically relies on the assumption of "computational infeasibility." This assumption refers to the idea that certain cryptographic operations, such as reversing a cryptographic hash function or solving complex mathematical puzzles, are so difficult to perform that they effectively prevent attackers from compromising the security of the blockchain through brute force or other computational means.
How can basic blockchain security be attacked?
One way to attack basic blockchain security is by compromising the consensus mechanism of the blockchain network. The consensus mechanism is a fundamental aspect of blockchain that ensures agreement among participants on the state of the ledger. An attacker who gains control over or manipulates the consensus mechanism can disrupt the network's integrity, security, and trustworthiness.
What connects the blocks together in a linear sequence in the blockchain?
The blocks in a blockchain are connected together in a linear sequence through what is called "chains." This linking of blocks creates an unbroken sequence of data, hence the name "blockchain."
In the blockchain, what is responsible for maintaining a distributed network of participants?
The term "the network" refers to the distributed network of participants who collectively maintain and operate the blockchain. The network is a fundamental component of blockchain technology that ensures decentralization, security, and consensus among participants. It consists of nodes (individual computers or devices) that are interconnected and work together to achieve the goals of the blockchain.
How do blockchain supply chains function better?
Blockchain allows for the simple software-based transfer of value or tokenized ownership.
What role does public key cryptography play in the blockchain?
Public key cryptography, also known as asymmetric cryptography, plays a crucial role in ensuring secure digital signatures for transactions in the blockchain. It provides a mechanism for participants to securely interact and authenticate their identities without revealing their private keys.
Which type of cryptographic algorithm is commonly used in hashing data for the blockchain?
Hash functions are commonly used cryptographic algorithms for hashing data in the blockchain. Hash functions play a crucial role in ensuring data integrity and immutability within blockchain systems. Hashing involves taking an input (data) and processing it through a mathematical algorithm to generate a fixed-size output, which is the hash value.
What is the main purpose of using cryptographic algorithms in the blockchain?
The main purpose of using cryptographic algorithms in blockchain technology goes beyond just ensuring secure data transmission and storage, although those are important aspects. Cryptography plays a crucial role in achieving the core principles of a blockchain: decentralization, security, immutability, and transparency.
What is the main advantage of using elliptic curve cryptography over traditional encryption methods in the blockchain?
The main advantage of using elliptic curve cryptography (ECC) over traditional encryption methods in the blockchain is that ECC provides strong security with shorter key lengths. The ability of elliptic curve cryptography to provide robust security with shorter key lengths makes it an attractive choice for cryptographic operations in the blockchain. It addresses efficiency, performance, and security concerns that are crucial for the successful adoption and operation of blockchain networks.
What type of cryptography is specifically used for creating and verifying digital signatures in the blockchain?
Elliptic Curve Cryptography (ECC) is the specific type of cryptography commonly used for creating and verifying digital signatures in the blockchain. ECC offers a more efficient way to achieve the same level of security compared to other traditional asymmetric encryption methods, such as RSA (Rivest-Shamir-Adleman).
What are some promises commonly associated with the blockchain technology?
Blockchain technology is associated with several promises and benefits that have made it a revolutionary concept across various industries. Some of the commonly cited promises of blockchain technology include: Transparency: All participants can see and verify transactions, building trust. Security: Strong cryptography ensures data is tamper-resistant and secure. Immutability: Once data is added, it's nearly impossible to change without consensus.
What is the purpose of network nodes in the blockchain?
The purpose of network nodes in a blockchain is to maintain a copy of the entire blockchain and validate transactions. Nodes play a crucial role in the decentralized nature of blockchain technology by collectively maintaining the integrity of the network.
What does the term 'mining' refer to in the context of the blockchain?
The term 'mining' refers to the process of adding new blocks to the blockchain. It is a fundamental concept in Proof of Work (PoW) based blockchain systems, like Bitcoin, where miners compete to solve complex mathematical puzzles to validate transactions and create new blocks. This process plays a crucial role in maintaining the security, integrity, and consensus of the blockchain network.
Which cryptographic algorithm is specifically used during the process of mining in the blockchain?
During the process of mining in blockchain, cryptographic hash functions are specifically used. Hash functions play a crucial role in the mining process, especially in Proof of Work (PoW) consensus mechanisms, which are commonly used in cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin.
What components make up the blockchain structure?
Please select 2 correct answers
The blockchain structure consists of three main components: blocks, chains, and the network. These components work together to create a decentralized and secure distributed ledger system. The blockchain structure is composed of interconnected blocks, forming a chain, within a decentralized network. This innovative structure underpins the operation of cryptocurrencies, smart contracts, and other decentralized applications, revolutionizing various industries by providing secure, transparent, and trustless systems.
What is the basic building block of the blockchain?
A block is a data structure that contains a collection of transactions or information. It serves as a foundational unit of data storage and organization within a blockchain network. Each block is linked to the previous block through cryptographic hashes, forming a chain of blocks, hence the term "blockchain."