BigchainDB
Take blockchain, combine it with big data and voilà – you have BigchainDB: a decentralised database based on blockchain technology. It combines and links the collectively known, common advantages of big data with the potential of blockchain technology.
Big data features …
In classic big data, the data is processed diffusely. A high processing speed is achieved with multiple simultaneity in a gigantic combination of various computers, as a single computer with several processors and cores would not be able to carry out or even manage such processing alone. Even if the individual computers have a simple structure and are not really powerful on their own, the advantage clearly lies in the mass:
This is because the existing data volume is distributed evenly across the number of computers, which – compared to centralised processing – leads to lightning-fast processing times. The result? A high throughput for BigchainDB.
There is another advantage to decentralised processing. There is not just one or a few servers in play, but a large number of processing computers, which will noticeably reduce response times for end users. Just think of the “rush hour” with numerous simultaneous accesses, this is essential.
Big data applications are characterised, among other things, by the typical power of data searches. When a so-called query is made, the data volumes are searched at the speed of light thanks to distributed processing. The result is available to the user after a short response time. BigchainDB technology should also include this query capability. It should not only be queried via the familiar SQL, but also correspond to the typical Big Data NoSQL (“Not only SQL”).
…In combination with blockchain
‘Unmanipulable’ – that’s what blockchain stands for. We all know that once something is on the internet, it stays there. Because once entered, data cannot be changed or deleted. Someone, somewhere will always find the original! Even if it is practically impossible for criminals to control over 50% of the network and thus manipulate everything, it is much easier to hack a central server and change the data on it (Facebook, Microsoft, etc.).
In a BigchainDB, the immutability of the stored data is emphasised. This brings a decentralised authority into play: there is no central authority that controls all the data; instead, the general public is involved here too.
In a traditional stack, everything is based on a database. In this case, running applications access a central server, which in turn accesses a database containing the various contents and user data.
Once again, the advantage of a BigchainDB lies in the decentralised, distributed processing.
Where is BigchainDB used?
BigchainDB as a combination of blockchain and big data sounds exciting and promising. But where should it be used?
The official BigchainDB website emphasises four areas:
- Protection of intellectual property (e.g. music producers)
- Control over your own data.
- Recording of supply chains
- More efficient process design for government
