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A consensus algorithm is a process used in distributed computing systems to achieve agreement among nodes on a single data value or a set of values.
It is designed to ensure that all nodes in the system reach a consistent state and agree on the same outcome. Consensus algorithms are commonly used in blockchain technology to validate transactions and maintain the integrity of the network.
Types of Consensus Algorithm
Proof of Work (PoW):
Proof of Work blockchain technology uses a consensus algorithm where miners compete by solving intricate mathematical problems to authenticate transactions and add new blocks to the blockchain. The individual who is able to solve the problem first are rewarded with cryptocurrency.
Proof of Stake (PoS):
It is a consensus algorithm used in blockchain technology. It is an alternative to Proof of Work (PoW) and is designed to achieve consensus in a decentralized network. The process of selecting validators in PoS involves considering the amount of cryptocurrency they hold and are willing to stake as collateral. Validators with higher amounts of staked cryptocurrency have better chances of being selected to create new blocks and earn rewards. This contrasts with PoW, where miners compete to solve complex mathematical problems to create new blocks and receive a reward.
Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS):
Delegated Proof of Stake is a consensus algorithm used in blockchain technology where token holders delegate their voting power to a select group of nodes, known as “witnesses” or “delegates,” who are responsible for validating transactions and creating new blocks on the blockchain.
Proof of Burn (PoB):
the Proof of Burn consensus algorithm is in which cryptocurrency tokens are intentionally destroyed or “burned” to demonstrate commitment to the network and earn the right to mine or validate transactions.
Proof of Capacity:
Proof of Capacity is a method of cryptocurrency mining that utilizes hard drive space rather than computational power to solve complex mathematical problems. Also known as Proof of Space.
Proof of Elapsed Time (PoET):
Proof of Elapsed Time consensus mechanism used in blockchain technology to select a leader node in a network. It is based on a random wait time that is verified through a trusted execution environment (TEE) such as Intel’s Software Guard Extensions (SGX). The node that waits the longest time is selected as the leader, and this process is repeated for each block in the chain.
Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance (PBFT):
Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerance consensus algorithm allows a distributed system to reach an agreement on a single value, even in the presence of faulty nodes or malicious attacks. It was first proposed in 1999 by Miguel Castro and Barbara Liskov. In permission-based blockchain networks, PBFT is commonly utilized to guarantee that all nodes agree on the state of the ledger.