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2024 | Book

Introduction to Blockchain Read chapter Read first chapter

Blockchain Essentials

Core Concepts and Implementations

Authors: Ramchandra Sharad Mangrulkar, Pallavi Vijay Chavan

Publisher: Apress

Part of: Springer Professional "Wirtschaft+Technik" , Springer Professional "Technik" , Springer Professional "Wirtschaft"

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About this book

This book will teach you the core concepts of blockchain technology in a concise manner through straightforward, concrete examples using a range of programming languages, including Python and Solidity. The 50 programs presented in this book are all you need to gain a firm understanding of blockchain and how to implement it.

The book begins with an introduction to the fundamentals of blockchain technology, followed by a review of its types, framework, applications and challenges. Moving ahead, you will learn basic blockchain programming with hash functions, authentication code, and Merkle trees. You will then dive into the basics of bitcoin, including wallets, digital keys, transactions, digital signatures, and more. This is followed by a crash course on Ethereum programming, its network, and ecosystem. As you progress through the book, you will also learn about Hyperledger and put your newly-gained knowledge to work through case studies and example applications.

After reading this book, you will understand blockchain’s underlying concepts and its common implementations.

What You Will Learn

Master theoretical and practical implementations of various blockchain components using PythonImplement hashing, Merkel trees, and smart contracts using the Solidity programming language for various applicationsGrasp the internal structure of EVM and its implementation in smart contractsUnderstand why blockchain plays an essential role in cryptocurrencies and identify possible applications beyond cryptocurrenciesInvestigate and apply alternative blockchain solutions using Hyperledger, including its integration and deploymentExplore research opportunities through case studies and gain an overview of implementation using various languages

Who Is This Book For:

Anyone who is new to blockchain and wants to gain an an understanding of how it works and can be implemented.

Table of Contents

Frontmatter
Chapter 1. Introduction to Blockchain
Abstract
Readers of this book are likely to have some knowledge and basic idea about the enormous potential of the trending, decentralizing, and trustworthy technology called blockchain. This technology represents an innovation in the digital ecosystem that has significantly impacted trusted computing activities, resulting in an enhanced level of protection from cyber security threats.
This chapter lays out the fundamentals of blockchain technology, presenting its theoretical background, historical milestones, and present growth trends. Further, the conceptual view of a block in blockchain and the types of blockchain are described. The chapter discusses the basic skill set and libraries required to start doing “blockchain programming,” which is a key objective in this book. The chapter ends with a few examples and their implementation in Python.
Ramchandra Sharad Mangrulkar, Pallavi Vijay Chavan
Chapter 2. Essentials of Blockchain Programming
Abstract
Focusing on cryptography primitives and Merkle trees, this chapter examines the fundamentals of blockchain programming. The first section of the chapter describes hash functions and their properties. It highlights the significance of hash functions in the context of blockchain, especially for assuring data integrity and tamper resistance. The Secure Hash Algorithm (SHA) is presented as a popular hashing algorithm. The chapter then discusses public key cryptography, including the use of public and private keys, encryption algorithms, and digitally signed transactions. It emphasizes the importance of digital signatures in assuring the veracity and irrefutability of blockchain transactions. Merkle trees are introduced in blockchain technology as a fundamental data structure. The creation of a Merkle tree and its function in the blockchain to efficiently verify large data sets are described. In addition, the benefits and diverse applications of Merkle trees within the blockchain ecosystem are discussed. In the final section of the chapter, Python programs and practical exercises demonstrate the implementation of cryptographic primitives, hashing algorithms, and Merkle trees in blockchain development. These programs include hash code generation, mining, proving membership/nonmembership in Merkle trees, and employing the RSA digital signature scheme.
Ramchandra Sharad Mangrulkar, Pallavi Vijay Chavan
Chapter 3. Bitcoin
Abstract
This chapter discusses the fundamentals of Bitcoin, its history, and the predicted market for this cryptocurrency. It introduces the concept of Bitcoin wallets and describes their varieties and features, including custodial and noncustodial wallets and software and hardware wallets. The chapter also discusses digital keys and addresses, concentrating on Bitcoin’s private and public keys.
From their life cycle to the data structures involved, Bitcoin transactions are explained in detail. The chapter looks at the creation, broadcasting, and propagation of Bitcoin transactions, as well as the categories of transactions and their inputs and outputs. Also discussed are digital signatures and their function in securing transactions.
The chapter then examines Bitcoin’s mining and consensus mechanisms. It describes the mining process, decentralized consensus, and the associated costs. Consensus assaults and forking (hard and soft forks) are also discussed to emphasize the significance of consensus in the Bitcoin network.
Laboratory exercises implementing various Bitcoin-related concepts and programs, such as generating private keys, deploying smart contracts, and simulating transaction life cycles, conclude the chapter. The summary section includes multiple choice, short answer, and extended answer questions to test the reader’s comprehension of the chapter’s material.
Ramchandra Sharad Mangrulkar, Pallavi Vijay Chavan
Chapter 4. Ethereum Blockchain
Abstract
The Ethereum blockchain is a decentralized, open source platform that enables the creation and execution of smart contracts. It was introduced in 2015 by Vitalik Buterin and has since become one of the most popular blockchain networks. Ethereum allows developers to build decentralized applications (DApps) on top of its blockchain, providing them with a robust infrastructure and a wide range of functionalities. Its native cryptocurrency, Ether (ETH), is used for various purposes within the network, such as paying transaction fees and incentivizing.
Ramchandra Sharad Mangrulkar, Pallavi Vijay Chavan
Chapter 5. Hyperledger
Abstract
Hyperledger is an open-source community focused on developing enterprise-grade blockchain frameworks and tools. It aims to enable organizations to build and deploy robust, scalable, and secure blockchain solutions for various industries. With a strong emphasis on privacy, performance, and interoperability, Hyperledger offers a range of modular platforms that can be customized to meet specific business needs. By providing a collaborative environment for developers, Hyperledger fosters innovation and accelerates the adoption of blockchain technology in the corporate world.
Ramchandra Sharad Mangrulkar, Pallavi Vijay Chavan
Chapter 6. Case Studies Using Blockchain
Abstract
The widespread adoption of blockchain technology holds the potential for substantial transformations in various sectors. In document management, it ensures document integrity and authenticity through decentralized notary services. Food supply chains benefit from real-time tracking, elevating food safety standards. The insurance industry can streamline claims processing with parametric policies, reducing fraudulent activities. Income tax departments can enhance tax collection through transparent and automated ledgers. In retail banking, blockchain simplifies trade finance, know-your-customer procedures, and identity verification. Nevertheless, successful blockchain integration demands adherence to regulatory standards and active sector participation.
Ramchandra Sharad Mangrulkar, Pallavi Vijay Chavan
Chapter 7. Beyond Blockchain
Abstract
This chapter explores the metaverse, its layers, and the challenges in its implementation. It emphasizes the crucial role of blockchain technology in ensuring interoperability, security, and monetization. The chapter also discusses digital scarcity, trust, and security within the decentralized metaverse, highlighting blockchain’s role as a data hub and the emergence of digital trust networks (DTNs). It further explores blockchain’s impact on environmental, social, and governance initiatives, digital assets, financial markets, and artificial intelligence integration, including smart contract automation, security measures, and scalability. The chapter concludes with a focus on the future of banks and the application of blockchain in sustainable technologies, summarizing key points and providing short and long answer questions for comprehension assessment.
Ramchandra Sharad Mangrulkar, Pallavi Vijay Chavan
Backmatter
Metadata
Title
Blockchain Essentials
Authors
Ramchandra Sharad Mangrulkar
Pallavi Vijay Chavan
Copyright Year
2024
Publisher
Apress
Electronic ISBN
978-1-4842-9975-3
Print ISBN
978-1-4842-9974-6
DOI
https://doi.org/10.1007/978-1-4842-9975-3

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