Overview

The Blockchain Architecture - Intermediate Concepts course is designed for individuals with a basic understanding of digital technologies and foundational knowledge of blockchain principles and platforms. This course will delve deep into the realm of blockchain technology. Building upon the foundational knowledge obtained in the introductory course, this intermediate course offers a detailed look into security considerations, risk management strategies, and an overview of blockchain architecture. The course modules also explore the intricacies of smart contracts, legal and ethical implications of blockchain technology, and various governance models prevalent in the industry. After completing this course, you should be able to: - Explain the importance of security in blockchain implementation and identify potential implementation goals - Identify the risks involved in blockchain adoption and develop a basic risk management plan -Identify the legal and ethical implications of blockchain implementation across different industries - Describe the function, creation, and deployment of smart contracts - Differentiate between protocol-level and network-level security aspects - Compare blockchain regulations in various locations globally - Identify best practices for documenting blockchain solutions - Describe how documentation increases solution clarity and alignment

Syllabus

Blockchain Solution Architecture - Intermediate Concepts

Welcome to Blockchain Solution Architecture -Intermediate Concepts. This course is designed to delve deeper into the realm of blockchain technology. It builds upon the foundational knowledge gained in the Fundamentals of Blockchain Architecture course, and offers a detailed look into security considerations, risk management strategies, and an overview of blockchain architecture. We will also explore the intricacies of smart contracts, legal and ethical implications of blockchain technology, and various governance models prevalent in the industry.

Module 1: Blockchain Security Deep-Dive

This module provides an in-depth analysis of blockchain security at multiple levels. It covers smart contract security issues like reentrancy, integer overflow, and more. It discusses protocol-level security aspects including consensus algorithms, incentive mechanisms, and cryptography. Network-level security topics include Eclipse attacks, Sybil attacks, and ways to harden blockchain networks against risks. Students will learn to evaluate security tradeoffs and strengthen blockchain solutions.

Module 2: The Regulatory Landscape

This module deeply explores the evolving global regulatory landscape for blockchain and cryptocurrencies. It examines existing regulations across major jurisdictions and identifies gaps. It covers legal issues like data privacy, AML/KYC, custody, and more. Students will analyze case studies of enforcement actions. The module looks at self-regulatory efforts and trends in regulating DeFi and NFTs. Students will gain perspective on navigating the complex, uncertain regulatory landscape.

Module 3: Risk Management

This comprehensive risk management module examines risks across multiple dimensions. Enterprise risks include technology failures, stakeholder alignment, and solution viability. Geopolitical risks cover government stances, legal ambiguity, and jurisdictional differences. Market risks include volatility, speculation, and maturity. Reputational risks arise from partnerships, social impacts, and public perception. Students will evaluate ethical risks and compliance with evolving regulations. The module equips students to develop a blockchain risk management plan.

Module 4: Documenting Blockchain Solutions

This module covers best practices for properly documenting blockchain solutions. This includes crafting an executive overview, problem statement, SMART goals, guiding principles, solution architecture, timeline, risk assessment, and data dictionary. Students will learn how documentation increases solution clarity, alignment, and governance. Proper documentation practices are essential for blockchain projects to gain approval and funding.

Module 5: Blockchain Governance Concerns

This module analyzes the unique governance challenges arising from blockchain's decentralized nature. It covers governing shared infrastructure and consortium models. Blockchain-specific concerns like resolving forks are discussed. The module explores the workings of decentralized autonomous organizations (DAOs). Students will compare governance approaches and evaluate applicability based on blockchain architecture and use cases.

Module 6: Blockchain in the Real World

This module profiles a diverse set of real-world blockchain projects across finance, supply chain, credentialing, media, government, and other industries. Students will examine early successes and failures. The module draws key lessons from these pioneer implementations to reinforce learning from other modules. Students gain perspective on blockchain's real-world potential and limitations.