What is blockchain technology?

Now in its 3rd edition, IBM’s Blockchain for Dummies has introduced blockchain to more than 68,000 readers. Blockchain defined: Blockchain is a shared, immutable ledger that facilitates the process of recording transactions and tracking assets in a business network.

Is blockchain overhyped?

Some people in the blockchain industry have pointed out that blockchain has become overhyped, when, in reality, the technology has limitations and is inappropriate for many digital interactions. But through research and development, success and failure, and trial and error, we've learned the current issues and limitations of blockchains.

Can a blockchain be used as a database?

If a blockchain is used as a database, the information going into the database needs to be of high quality. The data stored on a blockchain is not inherently trustworthy, so events need to be recorded accurately in the first place. The phrase 'garbage in, garbage out' holds true in a blockchain system of record, just as with a centralized database.

What is a blockchain node?

Managing the transactions as they happen, before they make it on to the blockchain, is a network of computers, commonly called nodes, that are running a special piece of software they use to communicate with each other. What are the nodes saying?