What Is Blockchain? | Purposes of Blockchain Technology (With Examples)
Blockchain technology has probably become more popular as Bitcoin, and other cryptocurrencies have grown in popularity. Now, what is blockchain?
Blockchain technology is a form of database underpinning nearly all cryptocurrencies. The blockchain, at its core, operates as a distributed digital ledger that can store data of any type. The blockchain records cryptocurrency transactions or ownership of digital assets such as Non-Fungible Tokens (NFTs), which are digital representations of real-world objects.
Blockchain technology provides a novel way of powering these databases. It is like managing a database spread out over a global network of computers. They are commonly referred to as ‘nodes’ in this context. Blockchain technology makes it harder for hackers or cheaters to hack or corrupt a database because it distributes copies of it across an entire network. Multiple parties can then access the database and validate new additions, which is more secure and reduces the risk of corruption. Despite the popularity of cryptocurrency, blockchain technology has the potential to be used for a variety of other purposes.
Purposes of Blockchain Technology
Blockchain technology provides excellent transparency since it is a distributed ledger. Therefore, everyone on the network shares the same documentation instead of having individual topics. The blockchain eliminates the need for third parties to make guarantees, thereby reducing costs. From enhancing financial services to managing voting systems mentioned, blockchain technology has been tapped for a variety of purposes:
Cryptocurrency
Bitcoin, the first cryptocurrency, was created with blockchain technology in 2008. The anonymous Satoshi Nakamoto was the creator of Bitcoin, either an individual or a group, who published a paper and designed the cryptocurrency. Blockchain technology is most associated with cryptocurrencies like Bitcoin and Ethereum in the modern age. The blockchain records transactions involving cryptocurrencies when people buy, sell, exchange, or spend them.
Banking
Banking institutions are also implementing blockchain technology to ensure the safety of transactions. Banks can store their private keys that are more difficult to break than passwords using digital signatures. In general, blockchain integration could help make transactions more secure for people without bank accounts and those without the required documentation. Additionally, the technology may reduce costs associated with international money transfers and make remittance services more accessible to immigrants.
Asset Transfers
Blockchain can also be used for recording and transferring ownership of different assets. NFTs are popular examples of digital assets that use this technique. Additionally, blockchain could transfer ownership of real-life assets, such as real estate deeds. As an example, the blockchain could fulfill both the buyer’s and seller’s contractual obligations in a real estate deal. For instance, it can verify ownership rights in a real estate transaction. All of these tasks could be performed without manual submission of paperwork to update land registration records.
Smart Contracts
Alternative blockchain innovation is self-executing legal contracts, also known as smart contracts. These digital contracts would take effect automatically once certain conditions are met. For example, once both parties have met all deal-related criteria, payment can be released immediately.
Gaming Sector
Blockchain technology also allows digital assets to be owned by players in a game. These assets can be traded socially by selling, leasing, or gifting them online. Furthermore, it makes exchanging virtual currencies more seamless, secure, and fair.
Keeping Track of Supply Chains
Supply chains usually require a lot of information, especially when goods are manufactured and then shipped worldwide, even when pandemics aren’t present. When using conventional data storage methods, the source of problems can be challenging to pinpoint. An example would be if a vendor-supplied low-quality goods. Keeping supply data information on the blockchain makes it easier to monitor which goods have come from specific sources.
Casting your Vote
The use of blockchain in voting and government formation is perhaps the most promising. People can use it to keep their votes safe and have more control over how they are used. In addition, it ensures that no fraud occurs and that a transaction is legitimate.
Health Care Sector
Blockchain technology has the potential to benefit the health care industry. Boosting security around health records and sharing them easier is the main reason for doing so. With this technology, patients could access their records from anywhere they had access to a computer or smartphone. In addition to offering doctors and researchers a safe way to exchange medical data, blockchain technology ensures that patient privacy and research integrity are protected as well.
Conclusion
According to some, blockchain is a niche technology similar to the Internet in its early days. Others predict blockchain technology will continue to grow and gain adoption in the coming years. Recently, some governments have experimented with blockchain technologies in various fields, including land registration, benefits, healthcare, procurement, and food supply chains. Although blockchain is far from perfect, there are several real-world applications it can provide.
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