Blockchain Basics from Coursera

This first course of the Blockchain specialization provides a broad overview of the essential concepts of blockchain technology – by initially exploring the Bitcoin protocol followed by the Ethereum protocol – to lay the foundation necessary for developing applications and programming. You will be equipped with the knowledge needed to create nodes on your personal Ethereum blockchain, create accounts, unlock accounts, mine, transact, transfer Ethers, and check balances.

You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, an immutable distributed ledger and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This course enables you to explain basic components of a blockchain (transaction, block, block header, and the chain) its operations (verification, validation, and consensus model) underlying algorithms, and essentials of trust (hard fork and soft fork). Content includes the hashing and cryptography foundations indispensable to blockchain programming, which is the focus of two subsequent specialization courses, Smart Contracts and Decentralized Applications (Dapps). You will work on a virtual machine image, specifically created for this course, to build an Ethereum test chain and operate on the chain. This hands-on activity will help you understand the workings of a blockchain, its transactions, blocks and mining.

Main concepts are delivered through videos, demos and hands-on exercises.

What's inside

Syllabus

Blockchain Defined

We will introduce and define blockchain, explain the structure and operational aspects of Bitcoin blockchain, and compare different types of blockchains.

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Enhances knowledge of algorithms and techniques used in blockchain programming, which is essential for understanding industry applications

Builds a foundation in both Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols, providing learners with a comprehensive understanding of blockchain technology

Provides hands-on experience through exercises and activities, reinforcing understanding and solidifying knowledge gained through theory

Taught by Bina Ramamurthy, an expert in blockchain technology, ensuring learners receive up-to-date and relevant knowledge

Emphasizes essential concepts, including trust models and consensus protocols, providing a strong basis for further exploration in the field

This course is aimed at individuals who are interested in gaining a foundational understanding of blockchain technology and its applications

Reviews summary

Solid fundamentals in blockchain

According to learners, this course provides an excellent and clear introduction to the fundamental concepts of blockchain technology. Students consistently praise the quality of the explanations for complex topics like cryptography, hashing, and the distinctions between Bitcoin and Ethereum. The instructor is frequently highlighted for their ability to simplify difficult material and make it engaging. The hands-on exercises, particularly with the Ethereum test chain, are widely considered a valuable component that enhances understanding. While some learners mentioned desiring more depth in advanced areas, the consensus is that this course serves as a strong foundational starting point for anyone new to the field.

Covers basics well; some want more depth.

"The course covers the basics very well, but it doesn't go into super advanced detail."

"For a 'basics' course, it meets expectations; don't expect to become a developer after this one."

"The pace is good for understanding the fundamentals without getting bogged down."

Great starting point for newcomers.

"This course is perfect if you're completely new to blockchain and need a solid foundation."

"An excellent entry-level course covering all the basic prerequisites."

"It's great for beginners, but if you're looking for deep technical dives, you'll need subsequent courses."

Practical exercises reinforce concepts.

"The hands-on labs with the Ethereum test chain were incredibly helpful for practical understanding."

"Working with the VM image provided great practical experience."

"I found the demos and labs really solidified my understanding of how a blockchain operates."

Instructor makes learning engaging and easy.

"The instructor is fantastic, great at breaking down complex topics."

"Loved the professor's teaching style, very clear and easy to follow along."

"The instructor's enthusiasm and clarity made the material very approachable."

Simplifies complex blockchain concepts.

"The course provides very clear explanations of complex topics like hashing and cryptography."

"The way the instructor explains everything is simple and easy to understand for a beginner."

"Finally understood the core concepts behind blockchain thanks to the clear lectures."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Blockchain Basics with these activities:

Review the basics of hashing functions

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Begin by refreshing your knowledge of the fundamentals of hashing functions.

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Read a tutorial on hashing functions.
Solve practice problems on hashing functions.

Practice creating and executing transactions on the Ethereum blockchain

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Sharpen your understanding of creating and executing transactions on the Ethereum blockchain through repetitive practice.

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Set up an Ethereum development environment.
Create a smart contract that can receive and spend Ether.
Write code to interact with the smart contract.

Learn and Practice Hashing Techniques

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Understand the fundamentals and significance of hashing in blockchain technology.

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Explore online resources or tutorials on hashing algorithms (e.g., SHA-256, SHA3, keccak).
Practice implementing hashing algorithms in a programming language (e.g., Python).

Three other activities

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Follow a guided tutorial on building a decentralized application (DApp)

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Gain practical experience in the end-to-end development of a DApp through guided tutorials.

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Find a reputable tutorial on DApp development.
Follow the tutorial step-by-step.
Deploy your DApp to a test network.

Create a technical report on the security implications of smart contracts

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Deepen your understanding of smart contract security by researching and writing a comprehensive technical report.

Browse courses on Blockchain Security

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Research smart contract security vulnerabilities.
Analyze case studies of smart contract attacks.
Write a technical report outlining your findings.

Contribute to an open-source blockchain project

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Make a meaningful contribution to the blockchain community by volunteering your skills on an open-source project.

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Find an open-source blockchain project that aligns with your interests.
Review the project documentation.
Identify an area where you can contribute.
Submit a pull request with your proposed changes.

Career center

Learners who complete Blockchain Basics will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:

Blockchain Developer

Blockchain Developers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining blockchain applications. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Blockchain Developer.

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Smart Contract Developer

Smart Contract Developers are responsible for developing and deploying smart contracts on blockchain platforms. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Smart Contract Developer.

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Decentralized Application Developer

Decentralized Application Developers are responsible for developing and deploying decentralized applications (dApps) on blockchain platforms. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Decentralized Application Developer.

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Cryptocurrency Trader

Cryptocurrency Traders are responsible for buying and selling cryptocurrencies on exchanges. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Cryptocurrency Trader.

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Cryptocurrency Analyst

Cryptocurrency Analysts are responsible for analyzing the cryptocurrency market and providing insights to investors. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Cryptocurrency Analyst.

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Blockchain Consultant

Blockchain Consultants are responsible for advising businesses on how to implement blockchain technology. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Blockchain Consultant.

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Blockchain Architect

Blockchain Architects are responsible for designing and building blockchain networks. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Blockchain Architect.

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Data Scientist

Data Scientists are responsible for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting data. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Data Scientist.

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Software Engineer

Software Engineers are responsible for designing, developing, and maintaining software applications. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Software Engineer.

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Computer Scientist

Computer Scientists are responsible for researching and developing new computer technologies. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Computer Scientist.

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Financial Analyst

Financial Analysts are responsible for analyzing financial data and providing insights to investors. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Financial Analyst.

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Investment Banker

Investment Bankers are responsible for advising companies on mergers and acquisitions, and other financial transactions. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as an Investment Banker.

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Product Manager

Product Managers are responsible for developing and managing products. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Product Manager.

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Marketing Manager

Marketing Managers are responsible for developing and executing marketing campaigns. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Marketing Manager.

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Business Analyst

Business Analysts are responsible for analyzing business processes and providing recommendations for improvement. This course provides a strong foundation in the essential concepts of blockchain technology, including the Bitcoin and Ethereum protocols. You will learn about the decentralized peer-to-peer network, immutable distributed ledger, and the trust model that defines a blockchain. This knowledge will be essential for your success as a Business Analyst.

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