Use Cases and Architecture

Blockchain Beyond Bitcoin: Use Cases and Architecture Blockchain is often linked to Bitcoin, but its value extends far beyond digital money. Today, businesses and public bodies use blockchains to boost trust, traceability, and automation across many sectors. A blockchain combines a shared ledger, cryptography, and smart rules that run on a network of computers. This mix can reduce fraud, cut delays, and open new ways to work together. Architecture helps explain how it all fits. A typical blockchain stack has several layers. The data layer records transactions as blocks. The network layer connects participants. The consensus layer agrees on the order of events. The smart contract layer stores and runs business rules. The application layer serves user apps. Access can be open to the world or limited to trusted partners. To keep data private and fast, many designs use off-chain storage and selective data sharing, with only essential proofs on-chain. ...