Soft Fork
CryptoGlossary term
Definition
A backward-compatible change to a blockchain's protocol where only previously valid transactions are made invalid, allowing non-upgraded nodes to still function on the network. Unlike a hard fork, a soft fork does not create a separate blockchain and typically requires only a majority of miners or validators to upgrade. Soft forks are generally considered less disruptive and are used for smaller protocol improvements.
Related terms
- Hard ForkA permanent change to a blockchain's protocol that creates a completely separate chain, making previously invalid blocks and transactions valid or vice versa. Hard forks require all nodes and users to upgrade to the new software, and those who don't will remain on the old chain. Famous examples include Bitcoin Cash forking from Bitcoin and Ethereum Classic resulting from a hard fork of Ethereum.
- BlockchainA distributed digital ledger that records transactions across a network of computers in a way that makes the data nearly impossible to alter retroactively. Each block contains a set of transactions and is cryptographically linked to the previous block, forming a chain. This technology provides transparency, security, and decentralization without requiring a central authority.
- Proof of WorkA consensus mechanism that requires miners to solve computationally intensive mathematical puzzles to validate transactions and add new blocks to the blockchain. It was the first consensus method used in blockchain technology and remains the mechanism behind Bitcoin. While highly secure, Proof of Work is criticized for its significant energy consumption and environmental impact.
- Proof of StakeA consensus mechanism where validators are chosen to create new blocks and confirm transactions based on the amount of cryptocurrency they have staked as collateral. It is considered a more energy-efficient alternative to Proof of Work because it does not require massive computational power. Ethereum adopted Proof of Stake in 2022, dramatically reducing its energy consumption.
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