Blockchain and Other Distributed Ledger Technologies, An Advanced Primer

Abstract

Although there are many versions of blockchain technology today, it was first introduced in 2008 as the technology supporting Bitcoin, the first successful virtual currency system. Yet in and of itself, Blockchain technology is much more than the underpinning for Bitcoin (and other cryptocurrencies) and has found many applications beyond its initial purpose. The goal of this advanced primer is to review the current state of this technology and to discuss some of its advantages and drawbacks in settings beyond crypto-currencies.