Blockchain Basics: A Non-Technical Introduction in 25 Steps

Daniel Drescher

Mar 2017 · Apress

About this ebook

In 25 concise steps, you will learn the basics of blockchain technology. No mathematical formulas, program code, or computer science jargon are used. No previous knowledge in computer science, mathematics, programming, or cryptography is required. Terminology is explained through pictures, analogies, and metaphors.

This book bridges the gap that exists between purely technical books about the blockchain and purely business-focused books. It does so by explaining both the technical concepts that make up the blockchain and their role in business-relevant applications.

What You'll Learn

• What the blockchain is
  
• Why it is needed and what problem it solves
  
• Why there is so much excitement about the blockchain and its potential
  
• Major components and their purpose
  
• How various components of the blockchain work and interact
  
• Limitations, why they exist, and what has been done to overcome them
  
• Major application scenarios

Who This Book Is For

Everyone who wants to get a general idea of what blockchain technology is, how it works, and how it will potentially change the financial system as we know it

Ratings and reviews

It is a great book on blockchain. It helps me to understand what blockchain is, why it exists and how it helps. To dive into blockchain, I read couple blockchain books, articles and took some online courses. They are either too focus on coding and algorithm but never explain. However, Drescher said blockchain is the solution to the Double Spending Problem and he gave details to explain this solution. If you are like me, I suggest you start with chapter 7 and chapter 8, otherwise, start with chapter 1.

Tricky and complex topic, explained by someone who is exceptionally clever but understands the rest of us may not be! Hard going but very well constructed

Excellent resource for anyone looking to gain a greater and more in-depth understanding of blockchain and distributed ledger technology. Highly recommended.

About the author

Daniel Drescher is an experienced banking professional who has held positions in electronic security trading in a range of banks. His recent activities have focused on automation, machine learning and big data in the context of security trading. Amongst others, Daniel holds a Doctorate in Econometrics from the Technical University of Berlin and an MSc in Software Engineering from the University of Oxford.