Blockchain Transaction Networks

Abstract

This chapter introduces blockchain network structures in both UTXO- and account-based systems. It begins with Bitcoin’s transaction and address graphs, showing how Satoshi Nakamoto’s design defines network topology and enables modeling through transaction graphs, address graphs, and chainlets. Privacy coins like Monero and Zcash extend this framework with ring signatures and zero-knowledge proofs that obscure data but still permit partial inference. Ethereum shifts focus to account-based networks, covering coin and token transactions, contract interactions, and trace analysis. Ripple concludes the chapter with credit networks built on trust lines and path-based settlements, showing how global credit flows can be modeled graphically.