Each block in a blockchain contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block, creating a secure chain of data from "summary" of Blockchain Technology Explained by Alan T. Norman
Blockchain technology relies on a structure where each block contains a unique cryptographic hash, a kind of digital fingerprint, that is generated using a mathematical algorithm. This hash is a string of characters that is unique to the block it is associated with, and any slight change in the block's data would result in a completely different hash. This makes it virtually impossible to alter the information stored in a block without being detected. The key feature of a blockchain is that each block also contains the hash of the previous block in the chain. This creates a link between all the blocks in the chain, forming a secure and tamper-proof data structure. By including the previous block's hash in each new block, the entire chain becomes interconnected and any attempt to alter the data in one block would require changing the hashes of all subsequent blocks as well. This linking of blocks through cryptographic hashes ensures the integrity and security of the data stored in a blockchain. It creates a transparent and immutable ledger where the history of transactions or information is easily verifiable. This feature is particularly important in applications like cryptocurrencies, where the validity of transactions must be guaranteed without the need for a central authority. The process of hashing and linking blocks in a blockchain also adds a layer of security against malicious attacks or attempts to manipulate the data. Because each block's hash depends on the previous block's hash, any alteration in one block would disrupt the chain and immediately alert the network to the tampering. This decentralized nature of blockchain technology makes it resistant to fraud and tampering, ensuring the reliability and trustworthiness of the data stored in the chain.
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