In this chapter, we will take a step-by-step approach to understanding the principles of "Bitcoin" and "blockchain", and their various features and characteristics. The buzzwords Bitcoin and blockchain relate to emerging technologies that have taken the world by storm. As we progress through the chapter, we will cover the fundamentals of these unique technologies in a detailed manner. The chapter will also take you through the essence of cryptography and how cryptocurrencies are using this innovation as a foundation. We will also look into the history of Bitcoin, the alternate cryptocurrencies available, and the various Bitcoin wallets, and we will get an understanding of the structuring of the Bitcoin block header. When it comes to blockchain, we will go through the different types of blockchain, blockchain structure, its various workings and features, the challenges faced, the various platforms available for blockchain, and more.
In this chapter, we will look into the following topics:
- Cryptography and cryptocurrency
- History and introduction to Bitcoin
- An introduction to blockchain
- Comparing private, public, and consortium blockchains
