Blockchain Cryptography

Definition ∞ Blockchain cryptography involves the application of cryptographic principles to secure and validate transactions and data on a blockchain. It uses techniques such as hash functions, digital signatures, and encryption to ensure data integrity, authenticity, and immutability. This is the foundational security layer for all distributed ledger technologies.
Context ∞ Crypto news routinely discusses new cryptographic advancements, particularly in areas like zero-knowledge proofs for privacy or post-quantum cryptography for future security. Understanding blockchain cryptography is essential for assessing the security claims of various protocols and digital assets. Debates about the strength of hashing algorithms or the vulnerability of signature schemes frequently appear in technical analyses and security advisories.