Think of this as a shared digital notebook that everyone can see but no one can erase. It keeps a permanent record of every transaction made on the network.

The Digital Ledger

Instead of a bank or government being in charge, the system is run by a global network of computers. This means no single person or group can shut it down or change the rules.

Power of Decentralization

Once information is added to the chain, it becomes 'immutable,' meaning it cannot be edited or deleted. This ensures the data is trustworthy and cannot be faked later.

Records That Never Change

Since there is no boss, computers use specific rules called 'consensus' to agree on which records are correct. This ensures everyone in the network sees the same truthful information.

How the Network Agrees

These are called 'Smart Contracts' and they are digital deals that happen automatically when certain rules are met. They remove the need for middlemen like lawyers or brokers.

Agreements Made of Code

Smart contracts work like vending machines: once you provide the correct input, the machine gives the result automatically. This makes transactions faster and more reliable.

Digital Vending Machines

Blockchain can create digital IDs that you own and control yourself. You can prove who you are to a service without having to share all your private personal data.

Proving Your Identity Online

Because records cannot be altered, this technology can be used to count votes in a way that is visible to everyone. It makes it nearly impossible to tamper with election results.

Safe and Honest Voting

This technology can track products from the farm to the grocery store shelf. You can scan a label to see exactly where your food came from and if it is safe to eat.

Tracking Food and Goods

Patients can have a single, protected record of their health that they can share with different doctors. This keeps private data safe while ensuring you get the right care quickly.

Secure Medical Records

Blockchain allows you to truly own digital items, like tickets or art, as if they were physical objects. These items can be easily traded online without fear of someone making a fake copy.

Owning Digital Assets

This system allows people to lend, borrow, or save money using code instead of a traditional company. It provides financial tools to anyone in the world with an internet connection.

Banking Without a Bank

Some blockchains are open for the whole world to use, while others are restricted to specific organizations. This allows groups to choose the level of transparency or privacy they need.

Public vs Private Networks

Some older systems use a lot of electricity, but newer versions are designed to be very energy-efficient. Choosing eco-friendly systems is important for the future of the planet.

Energy and the Blockchain