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Blockchain Platforms

Bina Ramamurthy

4.6

Based on 1,078 ratings

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Bina Ramamurthy

This fourth course of the Blockchain specialization provides learners with an understanding of the broader blockchain ecosystem. Learners are introduced to other blockchain platforms, details of two decentralized application use cases, and challenges such as privacy and scalability. They are prepared to discuss permissioned blockchain architectures of Hyperledger and Microsoft Azure's blockchain as a service model and analyze the Augur and Grid+ decentralized application platforms. Course material includes emerging alternative decentralization models such as IPFS and Hashgraph, challenges in broader blockchain adoption, and continuous improvement solutions.

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What's inside

Syllabus

Permissioned Blockchains

In this module, we will explore the contributions of two major technology organizations: The Linux Foundation’s Hyperledger Fabric and Microsoft Azure’s Blockchain as a Service.

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Read about what's good

what should give you pause

and possible dealbreakers

Examines advanced blockchain concepts with applications in finance and economics

Provides a deep understanding of the broader blockchain ecosystem

Explores the challenges and solutions in blockchain adoption

Suitable for learners with some prior experience in blockchain

Covers permissioned blockchains, decentralized applications, and alternative decentralization models

Taught by instructors from industry-leading organizations

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Reviews summary

Overview of blockchain platforms

According to learners, this course offers a neutral overview of the broader blockchain ecosystem, covering various platforms like Hyperledger Fabric and Microsoft Azure, as well as alternative decentralized solutions like IPFS and Hashgraph. Students appreciated the breadth of topics introduced, which provides a good understanding of the landscape beyond just Ethereum. However, a common sentiment indicates that the course lacks sufficient depth in many areas, leaving some learners wanting more detailed coverage on specific platforms or challenges. The discussion of decentralized applications like Augur and Grid+ was noted. Being part of a specialization, the course likely requires prior foundational knowledge.

Assumes familiarity with blockchain basics.

"This course definitely builds on the earlier parts of the specialization; don't jump into this one first."

"Found it helpful having completed the previous courses as it assumes you understand basic blockchain concepts."

"If you're new to blockchain, this module will likely be confusing without foundational knowledge."

Introduces many blockchain technologies.

"I appreciated getting an overview of different blockchain platforms beyond just the major ones like Ethereum or Bitcoin."

"The course did a good job of covering various aspects, including permissioned systems and alternative models like IPFS."

"It provides a decent snapshot of the current blockchain landscape and different approaches being taken."

"Learned about platforms I wasn't familiar with, like Hyperledger and Hashgraph."

Some content may be outdated.

"Given how fast blockchain evolves, some of the specific examples or platform details felt slightly dated."

"The Augur and Grid+ Dapp examples might not fully reflect their current state or relevance."

"Requires awareness that the technology landscape moves quickly and course material might not be real-time."

Doesn't go deep into specific topics.

"While the breadth is good, I felt it only scratched the surface on most topics presented."

"Could use more in-depth coverage on specific platforms like Hyperledger or detailed technical implementations."

"I was hoping for a deeper dive into the mechanics of some of these systems, but it remained quite high-level."

"Many interesting concepts were introduced but not explored in enough detail to feel truly understood."

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 Platforms with these activities:

Review Blockchain Concepts

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Review basic blockchain concepts to strengthen foundational knowledge before starting the course.

Browse courses on Blockchain

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Revisit key blockchain terms and definitions.
Understand the structure and components of a blockchain.
Explore different blockchain consensus mechanisms.

Connect with Blockchain Professionals

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Reach out to professionals in the blockchain industry to gain insights, ask questions, and explore potential mentorship opportunities.

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Attend industry events or join online communities.
Identify professionals whose expertise aligns with your interests.
Initiate conversations and request informational interviews.

Compile a list of resources on Hashgraph

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By gathering and reviewing materials on Hashgraph, you will gain a deeper understanding of its innovative decentralized trust solution.

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Search for resources on Hashgraph
Organize the resources into a compilation

16 other activities

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Show all 19 activities

Gather and organize blockchain industry news

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Stay updated on the latest developments in the blockchain ecosystem by compiling news and articles.

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Subscribe to industry publications and blogs
Attend webinars or virtual events to gather insights
Bookmark relevant websites and articles for future reference

Explore Interplanetary File System (IPFS)

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Familiarizing yourself with IPFS will enhance your understanding of alternative decentralized data storage solutions and their benefits.

Browse courses on IPFS

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Find tutorials on IPFS
Follow along with the tutorials

Follow Tutorials on Interplanetary File System (IPFS) and Hashgraph

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Enhance knowledge of emerging technologies by following expert-led tutorials.

Browse courses on IPFS

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Identify reputable sources for tutorials on IPFS and Hashgraph.
Follow the tutorials, taking notes and experimenting with code examples.
Build a basic IPFS application or experiment with Hashgraph consensus mechanisms.
Discuss the implications and potential applications of these technologies.
Optional: Contribute to open-source projects related to IPFS or Hashgraph.

Practice Hyperledger Fabric exercises

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Completing these exercises will solidify your understanding of the key concepts and functionality of Hyperledger Fabric.

Browse courses on Hyperledger Fabric

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Obtain a Hyperledger Fabric environment
Follow along with guided tutorials
Complete hands-on exercises

Walkthrough of Hyperledger Fabric

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Follow guided tutorials to gain hands-on experience with Hyperledger Fabric, a popular permissioned blockchain platform.

Browse courses on Hyperledger Fabric

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Set up a Hyperledger Fabric development environment.
Create a blockchain network and deploy a sample application.
Explore the key features and benefits of Hyperledger Fabric.

Build a decentralized application on Azure Blockchain

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This project will provide you with practical experience in developing and deploying a dApp on Azure Blockchain, reinforcing your understanding of its capabilities and limitations.

Browse courses on Blockchain

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Design your dApp
Implement your dApp using Azure Blockchain
Test and deploy your dApp

Explore permissioned blockchain platforms

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Expand your knowledge of permissioned blockchain frameworks by following tutorials and building sample projects.

Browse courses on Hyperledger Fabric

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Identify relevant tutorials and workshops offered by Hyperledger or Azure
Implement sample projects to gain hands-on experience

Analyze Solidity Code for Smart Contracts

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Reinforce concepts related to smart contract development by working through examples.

Browse courses on Smart Contracts

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Find open-source Solidity projects on platforms like GitHub.
Choose a project that aligns with your interests or learning goals.
Analyze the project's Solidity code, focusing on implementation details
Identify patterns and design choices used in the project.
Optional: Implement similar contracts in a personal project to practice.

Augur and Grid+ Platform Exercises

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Complete exercises and tutorials on Augur and Grid+ to strengthen understanding and proficiency in decentralized application development.

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Participate in prediction markets using Augur's platform.
Create and manage a decentralized energy grid using Grid+.
Analyze the architecture and design of these decentralized applications.

Analyze blockchain use cases

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Strengthen your critical thinking and problem-solving skills by examining real-world blockchain applications.

Browse courses on Decentralized Applications

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Identify industry case studies or whitepapers
Evaluate the problem addressed, solution proposed, and potential impact

Emerging Blockchain Trends

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Compile and organize materials on emerging blockchain trends such as IPFS and Hashgraph to broaden knowledge and stay up-to-date.

Browse courses on IPFS

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Research and identify key trends in blockchain technology.
Gather articles, whitepapers, and resources related to IPFS and Hashgraph.
Create a comprehensive document or presentation summarizing your findings.

Attend industry meetups or conferences

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Connect with blockchain professionals, learn from experts, and stay informed about industry trends.

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Identify relevant conferences or meetups in your area
Attend sessions, participate in discussions, and network with attendees

Develop a Blockchain-Based Solution for a Real-World Problem

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Deepen understanding by applying blockchain concepts to practical scenarios.

Browse courses on Blockchain Applications

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Brainstorm a problem that could benefit from a blockchain solution.
Research existing blockchain platforms and their capabilities.
Design a blockchain-based solution, including data structures, transactions, and consensus mechanisms.
Implement the solution using a suitable blockchain platform.
Evaluate the solution's effectiveness and consider potential improvements.

Contribute to Open Blockchain Projects

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Participate in open-source blockchain projects to apply your skills, learn from others, and contribute to the broader blockchain ecosystem.

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Identify open-source blockchain projects that interest you.
Review the project documentation and identify areas where you can contribute.
Submit bug reports, feature requests, or code contributions.

Contribute to open-source blockchain projects

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Gain practical experience by contributing to actual blockchain projects and enhancing your coding skills.

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Identify beginner-friendly open-source projects on platforms like GitHub
Review project documentation and codebase
Propose or work on issues, submit pull requests, and collaborate with the community

Share your blockchain knowledge by mentoring

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Reinforce your understanding by assisting fellow learners or participating in forums to provide guidance.

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Join online forums or communities focused on blockchain
Offer help to other learners or answer questions
Consider becoming a mentor for students or junior professionals

Career center

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

Blockchain Developer

A Blockchain Developer designs, implements, and maintains blockchain networks and applications. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem and preparing for discussions on permissioned blockchain architectures and decentralized application platforms.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Developer

Blockchain Engineer

A Blockchain Engineer designs, develops, and maintains blockchain systems and applications. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem, permissioned blockchain architectures, decentralized application platforms, and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Engineer

Blockchain Architect

A Blockchain Architect designs and implements blockchain solutions for businesses. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem, permissioned blockchain architectures, decentralized application platforms, and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Architect

Blockchain Consultant

A Blockchain Consultant provides advice and guidance to businesses on how to use blockchain technology. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem, permissioned blockchain architectures, decentralized application platforms, and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Consultant

Blockchain Project Manager

A Blockchain Project Manager plans, executes, and manages blockchain projects. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem, permissioned blockchain architectures, decentralized application platforms, and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Project Manager

Data Scientist

A Data Scientist analyzes data to identify trends and patterns. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Data Scientist

Software Engineer

A Software Engineer designs, develops, and maintains software applications. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem, permissioned blockchain architectures, decentralized application platforms, and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Computer Scientist

A Computer Scientist researches and develops new computer technologies. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem, permissioned blockchain architectures, decentralized application platforms, and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Scientist

Information Security Analyst

An Information Security Analyst protects computer systems and networks from unauthorized access. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem, permissioned blockchain architectures, decentralized application platforms, and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Security Analyst

IT Auditor

An IT Auditor evaluates the security and effectiveness of computer systems and networks. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem, permissioned blockchain architectures, and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for IT Auditor

Risk Manager

A Risk Manager identifies and manages risks for businesses. This course may be useful for learning about the challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Risk Manager

Business Analyst

A Business Analyst analyzes business processes and develops solutions to improve efficiency. This course may be useful for learning about the challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

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Product Manager

A Product Manager plans and develops new products. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem, permissioned blockchain architectures, decentralized application platforms, and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

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Marketing Manager

A Marketing Manager develops and implements marketing campaigns. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Marketing Manager

Sales Manager

A Sales Manager leads and manages a sales team. This course may be useful for learning about the broader blockchain ecosystem and challenges in broader blockchain adoption.

See salaries and explore the career path for Sales Manager

Reading list

We've selected 15 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Blockchain Platforms.

Mastering Ethereum

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Provides a comprehensive guide to developing blockchain applications. It covers topics such as smart contract development, decentralized applications, and blockchain security. It valuable resource for anyone looking to build blockchain applications.

Blockchain Platforms

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What's inside

Syllabus

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Save this course

Reviews summary

Overview of blockchain platforms

Activities

Career center

Reading list

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