BTC2019

The proof-of-work algorithm is at the core of Bitcoin’s security model, allowing consensus without the need to trust an intermediary. Every Bitcoin user can benefit from understanding proof-of-work, but the underlying mechanisms including cryptographic hashes, binary numbers, and probability are difficult to understand without a computer science background. In this session, we’ll explore a way to visually understand proof-of-work using a microprocessor with LEDs and a toy algorithm.

What will students learn?
You'll learn the computation and economics behind proof-of-work without needing the requisite computer science knowledge. You'll learn how difficulty effects proof-of-work (probability).

This course is appropriate for people new to the industry, professionals, and developers who want to better understand how proof-of-work works.

Prerequisite: none