Imagine you and your friends want to decide where to eat. Everyone needs to agree on one place. That's basically what consensus means — everyone agreeing on the same thing!
🤔 Why Do We Need Consensus?
In a regular bank, there's one central computer that keeps track of everyone's money. Easy, right? But what if that computer makes a mistake or someone hacks it?
Blockchain is different. Instead of one computer, there are thousands of computers around the world, all keeping the same record. But here's the tricky part:
The Problem: How do thousands of computers agree on what's true when they can't see or trust each other?
That's where consensus comes in! It's like having rules for a game so everyone plays fairly.
🎮 A Simple Example
Let's say Alice wants to send 10 coins to Bob:
🔧 Types of Consensus
There are different ways computers can agree. The two most popular are:
Proof of Work
Computers solve hard puzzles to earn the right to add new information. Like winning a math competition!
Used by BitcoinProof of Stake
People who own more coins get to help verify transactions. Like voting based on how much you've invested!
Used by Ethereum✨ Why Consensus Matters
No single person can cheat the system
No one company controls everything
You can trust the system without trusting individuals
Everyone can see and verify the same information