![Blockchain Blockchain](/uploads/1/2/5/6/125600134/535477323.jpg)
A blockchain is a growing list of records, called blocks, which are linked using cryptography. Each block contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block a timestamp, and transaction data (generally represented as a Merkle tree). By design, a blockchain is resistant to modification of the data. The blockchain behind bitcoin is a public ledger of every transaction that has taken place. It cannot be tampered with or changed retrospectively.
![Blockchain Blockchain](https://lisk.io/content/5-academy/2-blockchain-basics/2-what-is-blockchain/what-is-blockchain-lisk-academy.jpg)
The simplest blockchain definition? A reliable, difficult-to-hack record of transactions – and of who owns what. Blockchain is based on distributed ledger technology, which securely records information across a peer-to-peer network. Although it was originally created for trading Bitcoin, blockchain’s potential reaches far beyond cryptocurrency.
Blockchain ledgers can include land titles, loans, identities, logistics manifests – almost anything of value. The technology is still new, but the potential impact it can have on business is exciting, and immense.