Method for proof-of-authority for highly reliable blockchain network

Abstract

A method for proof-of-authority for a highly reliable blockchain network according to the present invention comprises the steps in which: a proof-of-authority consensus processing unit selects an extra signer through a preset priority algorithm in a case in which a malfunctioning signer is present when the proof-of-authority consensus processing unit monitors network activities in a blockchain network in which a plurality of approved signers verify a transaction and then include the approved transaction in a chain as a block when the transaction starts at a node; when the new extra signer is approved by majority approvals of the existing signers, the proof-of-authority consensus processing unit replaces the malfunctioning signer with the extra signer; and the new extra signer generates a block or verifies the generated block.

Description

Proof-of-Authority Methods for High-Trust Blockchain Networks

[0001] The present invention relates to proof of authority in a blockchain, and more particularly, to a proof of authority method for a high-trust blockchain network.

[0002] Blockchain technology has recently attracted significant attention due to its potential to transform a wide range of industries. Blockchain, an open-source software platform built on a network of devices spread across the globe, works together to verify and process transactions, focusing on security, decentralization, trust, and transparency. All nodes are pre-certified within the blockchain network. This advantage allows for the utilization of rules and protocols that provide secure transactions and other benefits.

[0003] A consensus algorithm is a set of rules that all nodes in a blockchain network agree to follow to reach consensus on the network's state. This protocol ensures that all nodes operate with the same data and that transactions are processed fairly and securely. Today, various consensus algorithms exist, each with its own strengths and weaknesses. The most common include Proof-of-Stake (PoS), Proof-of-Work (PoW), and Proof-of-Authority (PoA). Choosing a consensus algorithm is a crucial decision for any blockchain network. The chosen algorithm depends on network requirements such as security, decentralization, and energy efficiency. PoW blockchains issue blocks at regular intervals by solving a hash problem, and miners provide security through hard mining. Therefore, computing power is a critical issue. PoA networks are less computationally intensive than PoW and PoS. In PoA blockchains, only a predetermined set of validators, called authorities, selected based on information within the chain, such as reputation or identity, can propose blocks. While PoA networks offer few advantages over other consensus methods, they are considered more secure because an attacker with unauthorized access or compromised privileges cannot effectively overwhelm a PoA network and cancel all transactions. A challenge with the PoA network is how to dynamically adjust and rebalance the signer list in the event of downtime. The authority to create new blocks is granted to nodes that prove their authority in the PoA network. This allows each node to sign based on their authentication. However, dormant validators in a blockchain network can cause various problems, including reduced security, performance, and decentralization. These issues must be addressed to ensure a secure blockchain.

[0004] To address this issue, inactive validators may need to be decertified or removed from the network entirely. To address the limitations of various blockchain systems, various existing and new consensus algorithms have been introduced. Several consensus algorithms have been implemented in various projects. However, these projects have significant drawbacks. However, since blocks are formed by solving the hash problem, computing power is a crucial issue.

[0005] The present invention is proposed to solve the above technical problems, and is a Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) consensus protocol that is reliable and efficient. 2 ) provides a method.

[0006] According to one embodiment of the present invention for solving the above problem, in a blockchain network in which a plurality of approved signers verify the transaction when a transaction is initiated at a node and the approved transaction is then included in a chain as a block, a method for proof-of-authority for a high-trust blockchain network is provided, the method including the steps of: when a malfunctioning signer occurs while a proof-of-authority consensus processing unit monitors network activity, selecting a spare signer through a preset priority algorithm; when a new spare signer is approved by a majority of existing signers, replacing the malfunctioning signer with the spare signer by the proof-of-authority consensus processing unit; and the steps of generating a block or verifying a generated block by the new spare signer.

[0007] In addition, the priority algorithm in the present invention is characterized by including a learning model including a Random Forest classifier.

[0008] In addition, the learning model in the present invention is characterized by receiving a signer ID, latency, uptime %), resource load, block signed, is standby, performance score, and good signer reputation as inputs to classify a spare signer that can be selected as a substitute signer among the spare signers.

[0009] In addition, the present invention is characterized in that each signer is limited to generating only a preset number of consecutive blocks.

[0010] The method for proving authority for a high-trust blockchain network of the present invention is, i.e., a Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) consensus algorithm. 2 ) is characterized by introducing idle redundant signers (miners) to the network to monitor and track activity, and identify, remove, and replace inactive validators, ensuring a always-reliable network. In other words, it increases the reliability of the PoA blockchain network by introducing the concept of secondary miners that act as redundant miners in the network.

[0011] In other words, in a Proof-of-Authority (PoA) blockchain, network decentralization is achieved by randomly selecting authority for efficiency and effectiveness. This means that only a pre-established group of validators, known as authorities, can propose blocks, and they are selected based on on-chain information such as reputation and identity. However, the challenge faced by PoA networks is maintaining the mining frequency and distributing and balancing the mining workload among various signers. To address this issue, the present invention proposes a robust and lightweight reputation-based PoA on a Layer 1 blockchain. 2We propose a Proof-of-Authority and Association (PoA) consensus protocol. This scheme challenges the purpose of the PoA network by ensuring a reliable network by replacing compromised miners with redundant signers. The proposed algorithm uses JavaScript to facilitate easy understanding of its functions and facilitates integration and deployment into IoT applications.

[0012] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the three layers of blockchain architecture.

[0013] Figure 2 is a Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) of the present invention. 2 ) Example of a blockchain system with applied algorithm

[0014] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the signer activity status and rate of return per 64 blocks.

[0015] Figure 4 is a Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) of the present invention. 2 ) Drawing showing an example of distribution

[0016] Figure 5 shows a proof-of-authority-and-association (PoA) consensus using artificial intelligence. 2 ) system block diagram

[0017] Figure 6 shows a proof-of-authority-and-association (PoA) consensus using artificial intelligence. 2 ) Algorithm signer replacement flow chart

[0018] Figure 7 is a diagram showing a comparison of replacement signer delay times when a machine learning model is used and when it is not used.

[0019] Hereinafter, in order to explain in detail to a degree that a person having ordinary skill in the art to which the present invention pertains can easily practice the technical idea of ​​the present invention, an embodiment of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings.

[0020]

[0021] To address the existing barriers of Proof of Authority (PoA)-based blockchain networks, we discuss a proposed model system and provide insights into the proposed algorithm and architecture. We also present experimental results for IoT networks and analyses of scalability and adaptability.

[0022]

[0023] In this embodiment, Hyperledger can be used as a blockchain.

[0024] Blockchain is a decentralized cryptocurrency system that operates securely by rewarding users who adhere to predetermined protocols. The requirements of a decentralized cryptocurrency system differ from those of IoT architecture. However, blockchain offers a promising solution for integrating into IoT systems for decentralized security. Blockchain IoT integration poses several challenges, including the lack of reliable centralized authority, making it vulnerable to various tampering possibilities. A blockchain consensus protocol is required to ensure authentication and immutability.

[0025] The proposed blockchain was written in Python for easy functionality and integration. The scalability of the intended blockchain system was tested using a single-board computer. Simulation and experimental evaluations demonstrated a latency of 148.89 ms. A blockchain storage optimization strategy based on an improved PBFT blockchain consensus mechanism was proposed to reduce storage overhead while ensuring blockchain recoverability. Experimental results demonstrate that the solution described in this invention can reduce consensus delays, communication resource requirements, and blockchain storage costs.

[0026]

[0027] Distributed ledger technology can be used to control and enhance the transparency of personal data processing. Some efforts aim to utilize this mechanism. In this work, we introduced the concept of redundancy and implemented a standby mechanism that removes inactive validators, ensuring the security and performance of the network.

[0028]

[0029] This invention analyzes and describes the implementation of a redundancy algorithm, a core component of a Layer 1 blockchain prototype whose primary purpose is to identify, remove, and replace signers in a decentralized and secure manner. This algorithm allows the prototype to determine which nodes cannot add new blocks to the blockchain and to randomly and unpredictably replace them.

[0030]

[0031] In blockchain networks, there's a trade-off between security and performance when designing consensus mechanisms. Fully controlled, private blockchain networks are useful for core developers working on backend networking / blockchain synchronization issues. Private networks are also useful for Dapp developers testing multi-block and multi-user scenarios.

[0032]

[0033] This invention makes the following contributions.

[0034] - Increases the reliability of the PoA blockchain network by introducing the concept of secondary miners that act as extra miners in the network.

[0035] - Test the purpose of the PoA network to ensure that corrupted miners are replaced with redundant signers.

[0036] - It is shown that the performance of the IoT blockchain network is not significantly affected by the introduction of the proposed algorithm.

[0037]

[0038] - Proposed Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) 2 ) algorithm

[0039] We describe a proposed system that addresses the existing barriers of the PoA-based blockchain network of the present invention.

[0040] Figure 1 is a diagram showing the three layers of blockchain architecture.

[0041] Figure 1 shows the proposed system architecture and the interactions between the blockchain components of Layer 1.

[0042] In the system of the present invention, miners, signers, and verifiers are all defined as the same entity, with different names depending on their functions and roles. In addition, the Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) of the present invention 2 ) The algorithm is assumed to be performed in the system's authority proof consensus processing unit.

[0043]

[0044] A. Proof of Geth's permission implementation

[0045] “Geth” is a blockchain execution client that handles the transactions, deployment, and execution of smart contracts and includes an embedded computer known as a blockchain virtual machine.

[0046] Blockchain architecture is divided into three layers as described.

[0047]

[0048] - Concepts layer: Consists of general cryptocurrency and Bitcoin concepts that can be applied in various ways, such as Bitcoin transaction order and status.

[0049] - Implementation: Each implementation can choose a specific blockchain concept or implement its own defined pattern in a specific way (e.g. blockchain algorithm for consensus, node participation control, and block creation control algorithm).

[0050] - Instances: Each implementation has different instances.

[0051] The core innovation of blockchain is how participants reach consensus regardless of network topology and functionality.

[0052]

[0053] This distributed mode helps determine the specific order of transactions and blocks. This algorithm is replicated across all nodes in the network. Below, we describe the integration and implementation mechanisms of the proposed consensus protocol.

[0054]

[0055] The present invention is designed for application to IoT-based blockchain networks, and the integration of the proposed protocol aims to address the following:

[0056] - Reduced risk of suspicious verifiers

[0057] - Ensures uninterrupted network operation even when signer downtime occurs

[0058] - Improved efficiency and reliability

[0059]

[0060] B. Components of a Layer 1 Blockchain Network

[0061] 1) Client node

[0062] 2) 2 signatories

[0063] 3) Extra signatories

[0064] 4) Proof of Authority and Association Algorithm: Redundancy Mechanism

[0065] 5) Smart automatic mining algorithm

[0066] The consensus mechanism considered here is the PoA consensus algorithm. The protocol trades network decentralization (random selection of authority) for efficiency and effectiveness, and defines a voting mechanism that dynamically adds new signers and removes existing ones.

[0067]

[0068] In Geth, this can be controlled via the clique.propose(address,authorized) method (a clique proposal for remote RPC calls). To authorize a new signer, an existing signer can propose clique.propose("0x...", true) . If more than half of the signers propose this, approval takes effect immediately, and the new account can begin signing blocks.

[0069] 1) Chain reorganization of PoA: Chain reorganization occurs most frequently after two blocks are mined simultaneously.

[0070] When a node receives a block from the new longest chain, a chain reorganization (commonly called a "reorg") occurs. To create the new longest chain, the node deactivates blocks from the previous longest chain. Because the consensus view of a blockchain is always to have the longest blockchain, this mechanism allows individual nodes in the network to agree on the same version of the blockchain. This blockchain network is compatible with the Ethereum Virtual Machine (EVM). While it is a Layer 1 solution, it incorporates SAM+ and PoA to improve efficiency and reliability. 2 The model is included. The implemented consensus protocol is the Clique protocol, a proof-of-authority consensus mechanism implemented in Geth. It is a permissioned consensus protocol, meaning that only a set of authorized validators can participate in block production. To participate in block production, validators must register their public keys on the chain via digital signatures and be verified. The proposed Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) consensus 2 ) model is a useful way to improve the scalability and efficiency of existing PoA networks.

[0071]

[0072] Figure 2 is a Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) of the present invention. 2 ) is an example of a blockchain system to which the algorithm is applied. Figure 2 shows the associated SAM+ and PoA. 2 This shows the blockchain layer 1. A staking smart contract is also implemented to manage the distribution of cryptocurrency on the network. By including a staking smart contract, users can receive cryptocurrency as a reward based on the amount and duration of their staking.

[0073]

[0074] This network separates network governance by authorized miners from the economics of network investment. Block mining is not incentivized by block rewards. Mining is in the hands of dedicated groups with proven integrity and reputation.

[0075] The known PoA implementation for Ethereum Geth is the Clique protocol. The Clique consensus mechanism is a PoA system in which only approved "signers" can create new blocks. The Clique consensus protocol is specified in EIP-225, and the initial set of approved signers is established in the Genesis block. Signers can be approved and de-approved using a voting mechanism that allows the signer set to change during the blockchain's operation. Because Clique is independent of difficulty adjustments, it can be configured to target any block time (within reasonable limits). Inactive validators cannot participate in the consensus process, making the network more vulnerable to attack.

[0076] Performance degradation: If a validator becomes inactive, it may not be able to produce blocks, which can slow down the network.

[0077] Decreased decentralization: When validators are disabled, the network becomes more centralized, making it less secure and less censorship-resistant.

[0078]

[0079] Likewise, a signer may propose to cancel an existing signature.

[0080] If half of the signers + 1 signer cancels a signer's approval, the signer is immediately removed, and blocks mined from that point on are rejected. Because Clique is based on Proof of Assurance, mining costs are zero. This makes reaching consensus and adding blocks faster.

[0081]

[0082] Clique has a crucial security feature. Signers can only produce a certain number of consecutive blocks. For example, if there are four designated signers for the Genesis block, one of them can only broadcast (4 / 2) + 1 = 3 blocks. The original node can only resume submission until another of the four designated signers confirms the block. This provides a lightweight safeguard against rogue nodes that take over the network and maliciously alter its state. The network can also halt if there aren't enough valid signers online. PoA promotes a more cooperative environment, where miners don't compete with each other but instead work together to maintain network operation.

[0083] Blockchains based on lightweight consensus protocols can replace energy-intensive transactions, eliminate the need for verification processes, and facilitate use in resource-constrained environments. By introducing the idea of ​​auxiliary miners, which act as redundant miners on the network, this work aims to investigate and improve the security, functionality, and reliability of PoA blockchain networks.

[0084]

[0085] C. Proof of Authority and Relevance (PoA) 2 )

[0086] Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) 2 ) introduces idle redundant signers to the network, monitoring and tracking signer activity and identifying, removing, and replacing inactive validators. Signers on the network automatically vote on authority transfers. For initial testing, a blockchain network consisting of six IoT nodes with three signers was created, with devices such as a Mac PC, a Windows PC, and a Raspberry Pi considered.

[0087] Additionally, to test the performance of the blockchain network, a simple smart contract is deployed as a separate entity on the network. The JSON-RPC protocol serves as an API for nodes to interact with the blockchain (peer-to-peer) network. The following is a PoA. 2 This is pseudocode for implementation.

[0088]

[0089] D. PoA for Consensus 2 condition

[0090] - Valid and Trusted Identity: Verifies the identity of the signer to maintain the integrity of the blockchain.

[0091] - Eligible nodes must register their public keys on the chain via digital signatures.

[0092] - The criteria and method for selecting and approving verifiers are the same for all candidates.

[0093] - Eligible nodes are considered active in long-term commitments.

[0094] - To maintain long-term engagement, validators must maintain their reputation as validators.

[0095]

[0096] Algorithm 1 below is the proposed PoA 2 It is a procedure of the algorithm.

[0097] Algorithm 1

[0098] 1: Define the list of signers (clique.getSigers) and network files.

[0099] 2: Enable standby mode for secondary signers

[0100] 3: Network Activity Monitoring

[0101] 4: For all sealer activities

[0102] 5: Calculate clique.status().sealerActivity

[0103] 6: Incorrect behavior → (when sealerActivity ["signer"] = 0)

[0104] 7: Identifying inactive nodes

[0105] 8: Cancel approval → clique.discard('signer address') Then

[0106] 9: Propose a spare account → clique.propose(' ', true)

[0107] 10: Replace the person believed to be the current block signer with the proposed extra signer.

[0108] 11: New signatories are approved by 1 / 2 of the signatories.

[0109] 12: Waiting for mining operation

[0110] 13: Mining the next block after the turn

[0111] 14: Continue network monitoring

[0112]

[0113] E. Learning-based PoA 2

[0114] Integrating machine learning (ML) into blockchain consensus mechanisms represents a significant advancement in optimizing blockchain efficiency and security. The present invention proposes a blockchain PoA. 2 (Proof of Authorization and Association) In the process of selecting standby signers in the consensus algorithm, a learning model, specifically a Random Forest classifier, is applied.

[0115]

[0116] Figure 5 shows a proof-of-authority-and-association (PoA) consensus using artificial intelligence. 2 ) is a system block diagram, and Figure 6 is a Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) using artificial intelligence. 2) is a flowchart of the algorithm's signer replacement, and Fig. 7 is a diagram showing a comparison of the replacement signer delay time when a machine learning model is used and when it is not used.

[0117]

[0118] The machine learning algorithm of the present invention receives a signer ID, latency, uptime %, resource load, signed block, is standby, performance score, and good signer reputation as inputs, and classifies a redundant signer that can be selected as a replacement signer among the redundant signers. The learning model includes a Random Forest classifier.

[0119]

[0120] In this invention, we developed and implemented a blockchain simulation environment capable of dynamically selecting redundant signers, regardless of whether machine learning support is available. To observe the impact on scalability and performance, the simulation was configured to vary the number of primary and standby signers (10, 50, and 100) and the number of transactions (100 and 1,000 blocks). The ML model uses a Random Forest algorithm trained on simulated data, including parameters such as latency, uptime, and resources, to predict the best possible standby signer.

[0121] The results showed a significant reduction in latency when selecting signers using machine learning. For example, for 100 blocks with 10 signers, latency was reduced from 49.9 ms without ML to 0.5 ms using ML. This improvement was consistent across all configurations, demonstrating the effectiveness of machine learning (ML) in optimizing decision-making processes within blockchain operations.

[0122]

[0123] - Results analysis

[0124] There are several ways to evaluate a signer's performance. One method is to use the protocol signer RPC method. This method takes the addresses of all signers as input and returns a JSON object containing information about the signer's performance, including the number of blocks signed per 64 block instances.

[0125] For testing, six Ethereum nodes were created to mimic the network, with three nodes designated as signers and the remaining three as spare nodes for the network in case of a signer node failure.

[0126]

[0127] Figure 3 is a diagram showing the signer activity status and profitability per 64 blocks. Specifically, Figure 3 shows the capture of signer nodes and their activity per 64 blocks.

[0128] When a node becomes completely inactive (sealerActvity node = 0), a spare signer replaces the inactive node. In this work, this was considered inactive in early stage testing.

[0129] PoA significantly outperforms current consensus algorithms in several areas, including latency, scalability, and power consumption. Signer nodes, client nodes, and storage nodes are the three main components of the network.

[0130]

[0131] As shown in Figure 3, the sealer activity for signer [0] remains inactive for a period of 64 blocks. This period ensures that this is not the result of a simple node failure.

[0132]

[0133] Figure 4 is a Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) of the present invention. 2) is a diagram showing an example of a distribution. Figure 4 shows a proposed PoA that repeats the activities of a signer node and activates a standby node when there is an inactive node. 2 It shows the distribution of , i.e., the replacement of dormant signers with standby spare signers. The activity of signers 2 and 3 is also shown.

[0134]

[0135] One way to measure blockchain network performance is block time. Block time is the average time it takes for a transaction to be confirmed and added to the blockchain as a new block. The lower the block time, the faster the transaction processing speed. Other considerations include transaction speed and fees. The shorter the transaction confirmation time and fees, the faster the transaction processing speed.

[0136]

[0137] Table 1 shows the Proof-of-Authority-and-Association (PoA) consensus. 2 ) shows network performance at runtime.

[0138] AverageCost(ETH)Avrg BlocktimeAvrg GasFee(gwei)Smart Contract(x3)0.00091958732s3Peer-to-Peer Network0.0003188110sNo costWeb Application01701ms-

[0139] The table is PoA 2It shows the performance of the network running on the network, the performance when three smart contract applications are deployed, and the performance when a web application is deployed as different entities on the network. The latency of a PoA blockchain varies depending on several factors, including the number of validators, network bandwidth, and transaction complexity. However, it is generally much lower than the latency of a PoW blockchain. Transaction processing speed measures the confirmation time of a transaction, which is the time it takes for a transaction to be confirmed on the blockchain. Finally, transaction fees can also be used to evaluate transaction processing speed, which is the amount of cryptocurrency required to process a transaction.

[0140]

[0141] - conclusion

[0142] Introducing redundant miners to Proof of Authority (PoA) can improve reliability.

[0143] PoA 2 Using a related technology called consensus, we analyzed the potential bottleneck of inactive validators in a private PoA blockchain. We demonstrated that motorizing the activity of sealers can improve PoA network performance. While this approach offers a better approach, it is still in its early stages of implementation.

[0144] Consequently, a failover mechanism can be implemented for spare miners in the event of one or more primary miners failing. This failover mechanism is automated to ensure rapid response without human intervention.

[0145]

[0146] As described above, the present invention is a solution to the problems occurring in the Proof of Authority (PoA) blockchain, and is a reliable and efficient consensus protocol based on Proof of Authority (PoA). 2(Proof-of-Authority-and-Association) was proposed.

[0147] In a blockchain network based on Proof of Authority (PoA), only valid participants with specific authority can propose blocks, thereby achieving network decentralization. However, there are difficulties in maintaining mining frequency, task distribution, and balance.

[0148] The present invention proposes a method for replacing a validator that has experienced a failure or error, thereby maintaining the stability of a Proof of Authority (PoA) network. This algorithm can be easily integrated into Internet of Things (IoT) applications and can be applied to a peer-to-peer IoT blockchain network to analyze its validity and scalability. Signers on the network automatically vote on authority transfers. For initial testing, a blockchain network consisting of six IoT nodes was created, including a MAC-PC, a Windows PC, and a Raspberry Pi.

[0149] Additionally, to test the performance of the blockchain network, a smart contract was simply deployed and verified as a separate entity on the network. The JSON-RPC protocol serves as an API for node-to-node interaction with the blockchain (P2P) network.

[0150] PoA 2 Consensus technology can be used to resolve bottlenecks that can arise from inactive validators in Proof of Authority (PoA) blockchains. Monitoring the activity of sealers can improve the performance of the Proof of Authority (PoA) network. If one or more primary miners fail, automated failover mechanisms for spare miners can be implemented to improve processing speed.

[0151]

[0152] As such, those skilled in the art will appreciate that the present invention can be implemented in other specific forms without altering its technical spirit or essential characteristics. Therefore, the embodiments described above should be understood as illustrative in all respects and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is defined by the claims below rather than the detailed description above, and all changes or modifications derived from the meaning and scope of the claims and their equivalents should be construed as being included within the scope of the present invention.

Claims

1. In a blockchain network, when a transaction is initiated from a node, multiple approved signers verify the transaction and then include the approved transaction in the chain as a block. A step of selecting a spare signer through a preset priority algorithm when a malfunctioning signer occurs while the authority proof agreement processing unit monitors network activity; A step of replacing a malfunctioning signer with a new spare signer by the proof of authority agreement processing unit when a new spare signer is approved by a majority of existing signers; and The step where a new redundant signer creates a block or verifies a created block; A proof-of-authority method for a high-trust blockchain network including .

2. In paragraph 1, The above priority algorithm is, A proof-of-authority method for a high-trust blockchain network, characterized by including a learning model including a random forest classifier.

3. In paragraph 3, The above learning model is, A proof-of-authority method for a high-trust blockchain network characterized by classifying spare signers that can be selected as replacement signers among spare signers by inputting signer ID, latency, uptime %, resource load, block signed, is standby, performance score, and signer reputation (good signer).

4. In paragraph 1, A proof-of-authority method for a high-trust blockchain network, characterized in that each signer is restricted to generating only a preset number of consecutive blocks.

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