In this Article we are learn about the Neo block chain and NEO's Consensus Algorithm

NEO is a blockchain platform that aims to provide a smart economy by utilizing digital assets, smart contracts, and decentralized applications. 

The platform was founded in 2014 and has since undergone numerous updates and developments to improve its capabilities and performance. One of the key components of NEO is its consensus algorithm, which is responsible for maintaining the integrity and security of the network. In this article, we will take a closer look at NEO's consensus algorithm and how it works.

What is a Consensus Algorithm?

A consensus algorithm is a process used by blockchain networks to achieve agreement on the state of the ledger. In a decentralized system, there is no central authority to verify transactions, so a consensus algorithm is used to ensure that all nodes in the network agree on the validity of transactions. This prevents double-spending and ensures that the ledger remains consistent across all nodes in the network.

NEO's Consensus Algorithm

NEO's consensus algorithm is called delegated Byzantine Fault Tolerance (dBFT), which is a modification of the traditional Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT) algorithm. BFT algorithms are designed to ensure consensus among a network of nodes that may be subject to failures or attacks. In a traditional BFT algorithm, each node has an equal say in the decision-making process, which can lead to slow performance and a lack of scalability.

In dBFT, nodes are divided into two categories: consensus nodes and ordinary nodes. Consensus nodes are responsible for verifying transactions and achieving consensus on the state of the ledger, while ordinary nodes are simply used to store and propagate information. This division of labor allows for faster transaction processing and better scalability.

The dBFT algorithm operates in rounds, with each round consisting of three phases: the speaker election phase, the block generation phase, and the verification phase. In the speaker election phase, consensus nodes are selected to participate in the round. These nodes are chosen based on their stake in the network, which is determined by the amount of NEO tokens they hold.

During the block generation phase, the selected consensus nodes take turns proposing blocks to add to the blockchain. Each block contains a set of verified transactions and a reference to the previous block in the chain. Consensus nodes can vote on the validity of each proposed block, and the block with the most votes is added to the blockchain.

Finally, in the verification phase, ordinary nodes verify the transactions in the new block and update their copies of the ledger accordingly. If a node detects any inconsistencies or errors, it can notify the network, and the block can be rejected.

Conclusion

NEO's delegated Byzantine Fault Tolerance (dBFT) consensus algorithm is a key component of its smart economy platform. By using a modified version of the traditional Byzantine Fault Tolerance algorithm, NEO is able to achieve fast transaction processing and high scalability, while also maintaining the security and integrity of the network.

 As blockchain technology continues to evolve, it will be interesting to see how other platforms develop and refine their own consensus algorithms.