Atomic Swap

Blockchain

A distributed, immutable digital ledger that records transactions across a network of computers without a central authority.

Distributed Ledger Technology

A digital system for recording, sharing, and synchronising data across multiple sites without a central administrator.

Consensus Mechanism

The method by which a distributed network agrees on the current state of the ledger and validates transactions.

Proof of Work

A consensus mechanism requiring computational effort to validate transactions and create new blocks, used by Bitcoin.

Proof of Stake

A consensus mechanism where validators are selected based on the amount of cryptocurrency they hold and stake.

Delegated Proof of Stake

A consensus mechanism where token holders vote for delegates who validate transactions on their behalf.

Byzantine Fault Tolerance

The ability of a distributed system to reach consensus despite some nodes acting maliciously or failing.

Merkle Tree

A hash-based data structure that efficiently verifies the integrity and consistency of large sets of data.

Hash Function

A mathematical function that converts input data of any size into a fixed-size output, used extensively in blockchain security.

Cryptographic Hash

A one-way function producing a fixed-length output that is computationally infeasible to reverse or find collisions for.

Public Key Cryptography

An encryption system using mathematically linked key pairs — a public key for encryption and a private key for decryption.

Digital Signature

A cryptographic mechanism that verifies the authenticity and integrity of digital messages or documents.

The ability of different blockchain networks to communicate, share data, and transfer value between each other.

A blockchain architecture that separates execution, consensus, settlement, and data availability into independent layers, enabling specialisation and improved scalability.

The property of blockchain data that prevents alteration or deletion once recorded on the ledger.

A cryptocurrency token that grants holders voting rights on protocol decisions and changes.

A unique digital asset on a blockchain that represents ownership of a specific item, artwork, or piece of content.

A fixed-income security issued and managed on blockchain infrastructure, automating coupon payments, settlement, and transfer of ownership through smart contracts.

A decentralised decision-making process where protocol changes are proposed, debated, and voted on through blockchain-based mechanisms by token holders or validators.

A digital asset created and managed on a blockchain, representing value, utility, or ownership rights.