What is a blockchain fork?

Forks in the blockchain network are essentially a split in the network. The network is open-source software, and the source code is accessible for download. This means that anyone can make changes to the code and submit improvements. The ability to experiment with open-source software is a key feature of cryptocurrencies, and it also helps with blockchain software updates. When the software of separate miners becomes out of sync, forks occur. Miners must choose which blockchain to use in the future. If there isn't a majority conclusion, two copies of the blockchain may be created. Around such occasions, there may be periods of higher price volatility.

Forks work by making changes to the blockchain's software protocol. They're frequently linked to the generation of new tokens. The most common method for producing new coins is to start from scratch. Alternatively, the existing Bitcoin blockchain might be 'forked'. The most popular way is to create fresh tokens from scratch. This method entails 'copying and pasting' existing code into a new token, which is then changed and launched. The network must be built from the ground up, and individuals must be persuaded to utilize the new coin. Litecoin, which began as a clone of bitcoin, is an example of this strategy. People were persuaded by the creators' adjustments to the code, and it has now become a popular cryptocurrency.

There are two types of forks: hard and soft forks.

A hard fork is the process of creating bitcoin cash from bitcoin. A hard fork is a significant modification to the software that forces all users to upgrade to the most recent version. Nodes that are still running the prior version of the program will not be accepted in the new one. A hard fork is a permanent break from the previous blockchain version. If the new version does not receive unanimous approval, two blockchains could use a variant of the same software.

A soft fork, on the other hand, is backwards compatible. The improved blockchain is in charge of transaction validation. Nodes that aren't modified, on the other hand, will regard the new blocks as valid. This only works in one direction; nodes that haven't been updated will be ignored by the upgraded blockchain. The majority of miners must update in order for a soft fork to work. The network will be more secure after the fork if more miners accept the new regulations. Soft forks have been employed on the blockchains of bitcoin and ethereum, among others. They're commonly employed to carry out software upgrades (such as BIP 66 in the case of bitcoin).