An Efficient Bitcoin Network Topology Discovery Algorithm for Dynamic Display

Abstract

The Bitcoin network comprises numerous nodes, necessitating users to invest significant network requests and time in comprehending its network topology. In this paper, we propose a Bitcoin network topology discovery algorithm that utilizes lightweight probe nodes to facilitate rapid transmission of network protocols. Building upon this, we introduce a node layer clustering algorithm based on filtering stable network nodes, enabling parallel discovery of the network topology. Additionally, we present an adaptive method for dynamically displaying the layered structure of the network topology. Experimental results demonstrate that our proposed method reduces communication overhead by approximately 72.16% when achieving a 95% similarity in network topology. Furthermore, the algorithm is applicable for discovering the network topology in other blockchain networks with similar structures.