Fundamentals of Blockchain Architecture from Coursera

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.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

- Describe how blocks are chained together

- Compare and contrast Pure versus Hybrid blockchains

- List the blockchain layers and describe what each of them does

- Describe the difference between on-chain and off-chain data storage

- Determine the right language and tools based on the blockchain platform and use case

- Describe the Byzantine Generals Problem

- Explain the blockchain trilemma

- Explain how cryptography, consensus, and immutability enhance blockchain security

What's inside

Syllabus

Blockchain Solution Architecture - Fundamentals of Blockchain Architecture

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.

Module 1: Introduction to Blockchain

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.

Module 2: Blockchain Use Cases

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.

Module 3: Blockchain Languages and Tools

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.

Module 4: Consensus Deep-Dive

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.

Module 5: The Blockchain Trilemma

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.

Module 6: Blockchain Security Overview

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.

Good to know

Know what's good

, what to watch for

, and possible dealbreakers

Introduces core principles of blockchain technology, providing foundational knowledge for further exploration

Covers various blockchain platforms, hosting decisions, associated technologies, and key development languages, offering a comprehensive overview of the blockchain landscape

Emphasizes the importance of consensus mechanisms in maintaining blockchain integrity, providing a deeper understanding of their role

Taught by Kris Bennett, an experienced instructor in blockchain and digital technology, ensuring quality instruction

Suitable for individuals with a basic understanding of digital technology, making it accessible to those seeking foundational knowledge

Provides a comprehensive introduction to blockchain technology, making it ideal for those new to the field

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 Fundamentals of Blockchain Architecture with these activities:

Read 'Blockchain Revolution' by Don Tapscott

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Reading 'Blockchain Revolution' will provide a comprehensive overview of the potential and applications of blockchain technology, helping you grasp the bigger picture.

View Supply Chain Revolution on Amazon

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Read the book and take notes
Summarize the key concepts and ideas presented in the book

Review basic cryptography concepts

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Reviewing cryptography concepts will provide a strong foundation for understanding blockchain security and its applications.

Browse courses on Cryptography

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Revisit basic number theory and algebra concepts
Review different types of encryption algorithms
Practice using cryptography tools and libraries

Compile a list of Blockchain use cases

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Compiling a list of blockchain use cases will help you understand the potential impact and applications of blockchain technology in various industries.

Browse courses on Blockchain Use Cases

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Research different industries where blockchain is being used
Identify specific use cases and their benefits
Organize the use cases into categories like finance, supply chain, healthcare, etc.

Five other activities

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Solve consensus algorithm exercises

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Solving exercises on consensus algorithms will help you understand how they work and their role in maintaining blockchain integrity.

Browse courses on Consensus Mechanisms

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Implement a simple consensus algorithm like Raft or Paxos
Analyze the strengths and weaknesses of different consensus algorithms

Follow tutorials on blockchain development frameworks

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Following tutorials on blockchain development frameworks will help you gain hands-on experience in building blockchain applications.

Browse courses on Blockchain Development

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Choose a blockchain development framework like Solidity or Hyperledger Fabric
Find tutorials that cover the basics of the framework
Follow the tutorials and build small blockchain applications

Build a simple blockchain using Python

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Building a simple blockchain from scratch will give you a deep understanding of how blockchain works and its components.

Browse courses on Blockchain Development

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Learn the basics of blockchain technology
Choose a programming language like Python
Implement the core components of a blockchain like blocks, chains, and consensus
Test your blockchain and analyze its performance

Contribute to an open source blockchain project

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Contributing to an open source blockchain project will provide you with real-world experience and help you connect with the blockchain community.

Browse courses on Open Source

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Find an open source blockchain project to contribute to
Identify a specific area where you can contribute
Read the project's documentation and guidelines
Submit your contributions to the project

Mentor junior blockchain developers

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Mentoring junior blockchain developers will help you solidify your understanding of blockchain concepts and enhance your communication skills.

Browse courses on Mentoring

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Connect with junior blockchain developers
Share your knowledge and experience
Provide guidance and support

Career center

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

Blockchain Researcher

Blockchain Researchers conduct research on blockchain technology and its applications. This course can help Blockchain Researchers build a foundation in blockchain technology and develop the necessary skills to conduct research on blockchain. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Blockchain Researchers to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Researcher

Blockchain Security Engineer

Blockchain Security Engineers are responsible for securing blockchain-based systems and applications. This course can help Blockchain Security Engineers build a foundation in blockchain security and develop the necessary skills to protect blockchain systems from threats. The course covers topics such as blockchain security, cryptography, and consensus mechanisms, which are all essential for Blockchain Security Engineers to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Security Engineer

Blockchain Architect

Blockchain Architects are responsible for designing and implementing blockchain solutions for businesses and organizations. This course can help Blockchain Architects gain a deep understanding of blockchain technology and the skills needed to design and implement blockchain solutions. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Blockchain Architects to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Architect

Decentralized Application Developer

Decentralized Application Developers build and maintain applications that run on blockchain networks. This course can help Decentralized Application Developers build a foundation in blockchain technology and develop the necessary skills to build and maintain decentralized applications. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Decentralized Application Developers to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Decentralized Application Developer

Blockchain Educator

Blockchain Educators teach blockchain technology to students and professionals. This course can help Blockchain Educators build a foundation in blockchain technology and develop the necessary skills to teach blockchain. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Blockchain Educators to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Educator

Smart Contract Engineer

Smart Contract Engineers design, develop, and maintain smart contracts. This course can help Smart Contract Engineers build a foundation in blockchain technology and develop the necessary skills to design, develop, and maintain smart contracts. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Smart Contract Engineers to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Smart Contract Engineer

Blockchain Consultant

Blockchain Consultants provide advice and guidance to businesses and organizations on how to use blockchain technology. This course can help Blockchain Consultants gain a deep understanding of blockchain technology and the skills needed to advise clients on blockchain projects. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Blockchain Consultants to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Consultant

Blockchain Developer

Individuals who work as Blockchain Developers are responsible for the design, development, and maintenance of blockchain-based systems. This course can help Blockchain Developers build a foundation in blockchain technology and develop the necessary skills to succeed in this field. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Blockchain Developers to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Developer

Blockchain Analyst

Blockchain Analysts are responsible for analyzing blockchain data and providing insights to businesses and organizations. This course can help Blockchain Analysts build a foundation in blockchain technology and develop the necessary skills to analyze blockchain data. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Blockchain Analysts to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Analyst

Blockchain Project Manager

Blockchain Project Managers are responsible for planning, managing, and executing blockchain projects. This course can help Blockchain Project Managers gain a deep understanding of blockchain technology and the skills needed to manage blockchain projects. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Blockchain Project Managers to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Blockchain Project Manager

Cryptocurrency Trader

Cryptocurrency Traders buy and sell cryptocurrencies for profit. This course can help Cryptocurrency Traders gain a deep understanding of blockchain technology and the skills needed to trade cryptocurrencies. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Cryptocurrency Traders to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Cryptocurrency Trader

Software Engineer

Software Engineers design, develop, and maintain software systems. This course may be useful for Software Engineers who are interested in learning about blockchain technology and its potential applications for their company. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Software Engineers to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Software Engineer

Computer Systems Analyst

Computer Systems Analysts design, develop, and implement computer systems. This course may be useful for Computer Systems Analysts who are interested in learning about blockchain technology and its potential applications for their company. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Computer Systems Analysts to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Computer Systems Analyst

Information Systems Manager

Information Systems Managers are responsible for planning, implementing, and managing the information systems of a company. This course may be useful for Information Systems Managers who are interested in learning about blockchain technology and its potential applications for their company. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for Information Systems Managers to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Information Systems Manager

Chief Technology Officer

Chief Technology Officers (CTOs) are responsible for overseeing the technology strategy and operations of a company. This course may be useful for CTOs who are interested in learning about blockchain technology and its potential applications for their company. The course covers topics such as blockchain architecture, consensus mechanisms, and blockchain security, which are all essential for CTOs to understand.

See salaries and explore the career path for Chief Technology Officer