What students should know before taking up blockchain technology? Plus top sources of cryptographic techniques
What should students know before they decide to pursue blockchain technology? Especially about their prospects?
Before pursuing blockchain technology, we feel that students should consider the following key points:
1. Understanding the basics:
Foundation in Computer Science: Blockchain is built on concepts like cryptography, distributed computing, and consensus algorithms. A strong foundation in computer science, especially in these areas, is crucial.
2. Real-world Applications:
Beyond Cryptocurrencies: While blockchain is well-known for its role in cryptocurrencies, its applications extend to supply chain management, smart contracts, healthcare, finance, and more.
Enterprise Adoption: Companies are exploring blockchain for its potential to increase transparency and efficiency. Familiarity with these use cases is important.
3. Market Volatility and Maturity:
Evolving Technology: Blockchain is still in its early stages. Some applications are experimental, and the market can be volatile. This can impact job stability and opportunities.
Regulatory Uncertainty: Different countries have varying stances on blockchain and cryptocurrencies, affecting career prospects depending on geographical location.
4. Skill Development:
Programming Languages: Proficiency in languages like Solidity, Rust, or Python is valuable, particularly for smart contract development.
Security Awareness: Blockchain is secure by design, but vulnerabilities can arise in poorly written smart contracts or during implementation. Understanding security best practices is critical.
Interdisciplinary Skills: Combining blockchain expertise with knowledge in fields like finance, law, or supply chain can open up unique opportunities.
5. Career Prospects:
High Demand, Niche Market: There is a high demand for blockchain professionals, but it remains a niche field. Companies often look for specialised skills.
Entrepreneurial Opportunities: Blockchain's decentralised nature offers opportunities for innovation and entrepreneurship, particularly in creating new decentralised applications (dApps).
Continuous Learning: The field evolves rapidly, so ongoing education and staying updated with the latest developments are necessary to remain competitive.
Students need to have in-depth knowledge of Cryptographic techniques when it comes to blockchain. Tell us a few sure-shot sources that can help students in this regard.
A few sources that are definite sure-shot sources to help out our students are as follows:
1. Books:
“Applied Cryptography” by Bruce Schneier: This is a classic book that provides a comprehensive introduction to cryptography. It's highly recommended for understanding the principles behind cryptographic techniques used in blockchain. Booklink
“Cryptography and Network Security” by William Stallings: This book offers detailed coverage of cryptographic algorithms and protocols, including practical applications in network security and blockchain technology. PDF Link
2. Online courses:
Community Resources: Blockchained India: A community-driven platform offering a curated list of resources. Link: https://blockchainedindia.github.io/resources/
Centre of Excellence in Blockchain Technology: A government initiative focused on blockchain applications across various sectors. Website: https://blockchain.gov.in/
Coursera: “Cryptography” by Stanford University (Dan Boneh): This course, taught by a leading expert in the field, covers the mathematical foundations of cryptography and practical applications, making it ideal for blockchain enthusiasts.
edX: “Applied Cryptography” by the University of Colorado: This course focuses on cryptographic techniques and their applications, including blockchain. It’s designed to give students a solid understanding of modern cryptographic practices.
https://www.coursera.org/learn/crypto
“Bitcoin: A Peer-to-Peer Electronic Cash System” by Satoshi Nakamoto: The original whitepaper introduces the cryptographic foundations of Bitcoin and is essential reading for anyone interested in blockchain. Paper Link
3. Interactive Platforms:
Cryptopals Challenges: A series of cryptography challenges that allow students to learn by doing. It covers a wide range of topics and is great for hands-on learners.
OverTheWire: “Cryptography” Challenges: These are wargames that focus on different aspects of cryptography. They provide a practical, engaging way to solidify cryptographic skills.Edex, The New Indian Express
