Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW) Definition
Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW) is a consensus algorithm developed by the Komodo platform which adds a second layer of security to a blockchain by leveraging the established security of another blockchain.
Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW) Key Points
- dPoW is a modified version of the Proof of Work (PoW) consensus mechanism.
- It is designed to offer additional security to smaller blockchains by utilizing the security of more established and larger blockchains such as Bitcoin.
- The delayed factor comes from the fact that the original data isn’t immediately considered as fully confirmed, instead is delayed with routine notarizations.
What is Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW)
Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW) is a consensus mechanism that offers extra security to blockchain platforms. Essentially, it’s a secondary consensus method that takes advantage of Bitcoin’s high security. It adds a layer of protection to blockchains that would otherwise lack the security benefits provided by more substantial computing capacities and network size.
Why Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW) is Needed
The need for dPoW arises from the vulnerabilities of smaller and newer blockchains. These networks may not have the extensive network size and robust computing power required to effectively safeguard against various security threats and attacks. dPoW enhances the security of these smaller blockchains by regularly recording their state onto the far more secure Bitcoin blockchain.
How Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW) Works
dPoW operates by taking snapshots of a specific blockchain state and notarizing these snapshots onto the Bitcoin blockchain. This notarization process makes the protected blockchain inherit the security of Bitcoin’s massive Proof of Work consensus, effectively creating a back-up of the smaller blockchain. If a smaller blockchain faces any threats to its history, dPoW can refer to the notarized snapshots on the Bitcoin blockchain and return to the last known uncompromised state.
Where Is Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW) Used
The Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW) consensus mechanism is primarily used by Komodo, the blockchain platform that invented it. However, other blockchain projects can also implement dPoW to gain additional security, making it an attractive choice for smaller and newer blockchains looking to enhance their network protection.
When is Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW) Applied
The dPoW consensus mechanism is applied in the mining process, just like the original Proof of Work (PoW) system. Blocks are propagated and validated by nodes within the network, but with dPoW, notary nodes add an added layer of security by regularly taking snapshots of the blockchain state and notarizing it onto Bitcoin’s blockchain.
Who Benefits From Delayed Proof of Work (dPoW)
The main beneficiaries of the dPoW consensus mechanism are the smaller blockchain projects that may not have extensive network size or adequate computing power. By leveraging the established security of the Bitcoin blockchain, these smaller projects can enhance their own network security and protect against potential threats. Moreover, users and investors also benefit as the security and reliability of the projects they are involved with is enhanced.
