This course is ideal for individuals with a basic understanding of digital technology as well as developers or security professionals wishing to expand their blockchain knowledge. It provides a comprehensive introduction to the world of blockchain technology. We will delve into the core principles of blockchain, exploring the critical decision-making processes involved in adopting this innovative technology. This course offers an overview of various blockchain platforms, hosting decisions, associated technologies, and the key development languages used. An important aspect of this course will be the introduction to the concept of consensus mechanisms and their integral role in maintaining the integrity of the blockchain.
Fundamentals of Blockchain Architecture
Fundamentals of Blockchain Architecture
This course is part of Blockchain Solution Architecture Specialization
Instructor: Kris Bennett
Included with 
Gain insight into a topic and learn the fundamentals.
4.8
(12 reviews)
Intermediate level
Recommended experience
19 hours to complete
3 weeks at 6 hours a week
Flexible schedule
Learn at your own pace
What you'll learn
Understand the fundamental concepts and principles of blockchain technology.
Analyze and make informed decisions about blockchain technology.
Skills you'll gain
Details to know
Shareable certificate
Add to your LinkedIn profile
Assessments
14 assignments
Taught in English
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This course is part of the Blockchain Solution Architecture Specialization
When you enroll in this course, you'll also be enrolled in this Specialization.
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There are 7 modules in this course
Welcome to Blockchain Solution Architecture - Fundamentals of Blockchain Architecture! In this course, we will delve into the core principles of blockchain. It offers an overview of various blockchain platforms, hosting decisions, associated technologies, and the key development languages used.
What's included
1 video3 readings
This module provides a comprehensive introduction to blockchain technology. We will discuss what blockchain is, the structure of blocks and chains, basic concepts like distributed ledgers, consensus mechanisms, and smart contracts. We will also explain the different layers of a blockchain like the protocol, network, and application layers, as well as explore blockchain wallets, public/private keys, and blockchain addresses. Finally, we will provide a detailed history of blockchain from its origins in Bitcoin to its evolution and mainstream adoption.
What's included
14 videos2 readings4 assignments1 discussion prompt4 plugins
We dive deep into real-world blockchain use cases across industries like finance, supply chain, healthcare, real estate, and more. It analyzes the value blockchain provides in different contexts. It provides a decision framework and checklist to determine when blockchain is an appropriate solution. It discusses alternatives like centralized databases. It covers the differences between on-chain and off-chain data storage and when to use each.
What's included
11 videos2 readings3 assignments1 discussion prompt1 plugin
Here we survey popular blockchain development languages like Solidity, Vyper, and Hyperledger Fabric. It explores blockchain toolsets and frameworks like Truffle, Embark, and OpenZeppelin for building dApps. It shares learning resources and developer communities to enable getting started. It provides guidance on selecting the right language and tools based on the blockchain platform and use case.
What's included
6 videos1 reading1 assignment1 discussion prompt
An in-depth exploration of blockchain consensus mechanisms like proof-of-work, proof-of-stake, delegated proof-of-stake, and practical Byzantine fault tolerance. It explains the Byzantine Generals Problem that consensus aims to solve. It analyzes the pros and cons of each consensus approach.
What's included
9 videos3 assignments2 discussion prompts
This module directly addresses the blockchain trilemma involving scalability, security, and decentralization tradeoffs. It explores potential solutions like sharding, sidechains, state channels, and directed acyclic graphs.
What's included
3 videos2 readings1 assignment3 discussion prompts1 plugin
This module examines the blockchain security advantages like cryptography, consensus, and immutability. It also discusses security issues like private key management, Sybil attacks, 51% attacks, and more.
What's included
9 videos1 reading2 assignments2 discussion prompts
Instructor
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University of Michigan
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