What is Blockchain Used For

by Peter Hansen

The world is full of high-tech solutions, but none has been as revolutionary for the digital world as blockchain technology. Blockchain is a distributed ledger technology that allows users to securely record transactions across multiple parties with no need for a central authority or third party intermediary. It utilizes an immutable chain of blocks containing data records, which are cryptographically chained together and secured using cryptography. I know that sounds complicated but think of it as a digital ledger that can be used to store and record transactions, contracts, and more. Like the name suggests, a blockchain is made up of multiple blocks linked together.

What is a Block?

So far, we’ve talked about blockchain as a whole, but the individual blocks that make up the chain are quite important. Each block contains data records and are cryptographically linked to each other. This is why it’s considered a secure system: no one can alter any of the information within the chain without being detected.

What is Blockchain Used For?

The beauty of blockchain technology lies in its versatility. It can be used for a variety of applications such as tracking assets, identity management, smart contracts, digital payments, supply chain transparency and much more. Financial transactions are one of the most common uses for blockchain technology; however, due to its decentralized nature and cryptographic security, it can also be used for applications such as voting. Let's take a look at 7 applications of blockchain in detail.

1. Smart Contracts

Smart contracts are digital agreements that bind all the participants in a particular transaction. Through blockchain technology, these contracts are stored securely and can be automated, so there is no need for third-party intermediaries. Smart contracts can streamline complex transactions and eliminate processing costs associated with traditional contract methods.
How do smart contracts use the blockchain?
Smart contracts are written into blocks on the blockchain and are executed when certain conditions are met. They are encoded with a preset set of rules that must be followed for the contract to execute, including signatures from all involved parties. This secure method allows contracts to be processed without any need for third-party intermediaries or middlemen, eliminating costs and streamlining transactions.

2. Supply Chain Transparency

Supply chain transparency is becoming increasingly important in today’s world as consumers become more aware of where their products come from and how they were made. Blockchain technology can provide end-to-end traceability throughout the entire supply chain process. By using cryptographic hashes, each block can store information specific to a product, including its origin, shipping details, and other relevant information. This allows the consumer to easily track their purchased items from start to finish.

3. Identity Management

Identity management is an important part of today’s digital world; however, it can be difficult to keep track of multiple identities across various platforms. With blockchain technology, users can store their personal data securely on the chain and have full control over who can access it. It eliminates the need for third-party authentication services such as passwords or fingerprints and provides users with better security when accessing online services.

4. Digital Payments

Digital payments are becoming increasingly popular, and blockchain technology has enabled them to become more secure. Cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin are based on this technology and are decentralized, meaning there is no need for a third-party intermediary such as a bank to process transactions. Payments can be made quickly and securely without any fees or delays.
Digital payments use the blockchain to securely store and transfer funds from one user to another. The blockchain uses cryptography to ensure that all transactions are secure, making them virtually impossible to be hacked or manipulated. Payments are also processed quickly and without any need for third-party intermediaries.

5. Data Security

Data security is of utmost importance in today’s digital world, and blockchain technology can provide an extra layer of protection against malicious attacks. By using cryptographic algorithms, data stored on the chain can be encrypted and thus protected from unauthorized access or tampering. With blockchain technology, users can securely store sensitive data and have full control over who can access it.

6. Healthcare

The healthcare industry is also beginning to embrace the potential of blockchain technology. By using distributed ledger technology, data can be securely stored and tracked with secure access levels for different stakeholders. This allows patients to have full control over their own health records, granting them access only when necessary. Healthcare providers can also use the immutable nature of the blockchain to track medications and treatments from start to finish.

7. Voting

Voting is an important part of democracy, but voter fraud remains a major issue in many countries around the world. Blockchain technology provides a way for governments to securely store and track votes without fear of manipulation. By using digital signatures and cryptographic algorithms, each vote can be tracked and verified to ensure accuracy and fairness in the voting process.

How Could Blockchain Be Used in the Future?

As technology continues to advance, more and more applications for blockchain will become available. For example, it could be used to create smart cities with automated utilities and traffic control systems that run on its peer-to-peer architecture. It could also play a role in data storage solutions, allowing users to store their data securely without relying on a third-party provider. Additionally, blockchain could be used to create new digital currencies which can be exchanged between users without any central authority or middleman involved.

Final Thoughts

Overall, blockchain technology has immense potential to revolutionize how data is stored, managed, and protected in many industries. From supply chain transparency to secure digital payments, healthcare records to voting systems, blockchain technology provides a reliable way for individuals and businesses alike to take advantage of its benefits. Despite its current limitations, blockchain technology is only growing in popularity thanks to its numerous advantages over traditional methods. With more advances on the horizon, it's clear that this revolutionary technology will continue to transform the world.


About the author of What is Blockchain Used For
Peter Hansen, a University of Western Ontario graduate with a degree in International Business, focuses his research and writing about Blockchain industry and the Lightning Network. He is interested in the technical details that allow these technologies to survive without the need for a central authority. His experience allows him to curate information in the most comprehensible way.