Revolutionizing Blockchain Democracy: The Roll-DPoS Algorithm
Numerous crypto projects aim to enhance standard consensus protocols to align with developers’ requirements, and Roll-DPoS is an example of such an algorithm.
We have previously reviewed various exotic consensus algorithms, but Roll-DPoS was not included in that list. It is likely that the options for voting models to achieve consensus will continue to expand.
Roll-DPoS explained
In order for transactions to be deemed valid, they must be confirmed by a distributed network using some form of consensus mechanism. Currently, there are four main algorithms widely utilized in blockchain projects:
- Proof of Work (PoW)
- Proof of Stake (PoS)
- Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT)
- Delegated Proof of Stake (DPoS)
DPoS (Delegated Proof of Stake) is a decentralized and flexible consensus algorithm utilized by blockchain projects such as Cardano, Tron, Tezos, EOS, and Steemit. However, applying DPoS to decentralized Internet of Things (IoT) applications is impractical due to challenges of large-scale deployments and processing of massive databases. To address this issue for blockchain applications based on IoT, the Roll-DPoS model was designed as a randomized algorithm for delegated proof of stake.
Roll-DPoS builds on the advantages of the initial DPoS framework and enhances its capacity for decentralization and scalability.
In 2017, Xinxin Fan, an applied developer from the University of Waterloo, proposed this mechanism. One year later, it was implemented in the IoTeX blockchain.
Roll-DPoS represents an evolution in the delegation of validation rights, achieved through the use of a dynamic set of controlling nodes that rotate on a regular basis. As a result, validators responsible for transaction verification and block creation are periodically replaced, with the frequency of rotation ranging from 24 to 72 hours.
Appointment of Roll-DPoS validators: The what, why, and how
Roll-DPoS diverges from traditional DPoS in the delegate selection process. Instead of relying on a voting system that considers the quantity of assets held, Roll-DPoS implements an egalitarian voting system. This means that each user is entitled to a vote, irrespective of the number of coins held on their balance. The total count of voting addresses is considered, rather than the number of voting coins.
This development employs a novel approach to delegate selection that promotes decentralization by equalizing the power of all network participants in the validator selection process. It's like a true democratic presidential election: one passport (wallet) – one vote. Unlike traditional voting systems, the blockchain is immune to fraud and tampering. It's worth noting that delegates are chosen from among users who have locked tokens in the project's liquidity pool, ensuring a fair and transparent selection process.
After the node selection process is complete, the nodes collaborate to validate transactions and generate new blocks. Their fair and ethical contributions are compensated with digital assets from the relevant blockchain. However, if any validator is found to be dishonest, their status will be demoted, and another user will replace them.
The Roll-DPoS algorithm also has a unique feature known as an “emergency mode”. If a serious blockchain failure or signs of a hacking attack are detected, validators can activate the protection feature to temporarily halt block creation. At this point, all network activity is suspended, and developers work to resolve the issue. The state of the blockchain is recorded and restored to its original state after it has been “repaired”. This helps prevent serious breaches and maintain the network's integrity.
In other words, Roll-DPoS creates an environment where the blockchain trilemma can be solved. This hybrid consensus model balances two important aspects: decentralization and security.
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