# iii. Blockchain Infrastructure & Networks

Blockchain infrastructure and networks provide the technical foundation for creating, recording, and validating digital transactions and records. These systems determine how data is stored, verified, and shared across decentralized or permissioned environments.

#### **Blockchain Network**

A distributed system of nodes that collectively maintain and validate a shared ledger.

#### **Consensus Mechanism**

The process by which network participants agree on the validity and order of transactions.

#### **Distributed Ledger**

A database replicated across multiple nodes, where each participant maintains a synchronized copy.

#### **Layer 1 Network**

A base blockchain that independently handles transaction execution, validation, and security.

#### **Layer 2 Network**

A secondary system built on top of a base blockchain to improve scalability or efficiency.

#### **Network Node**

A computer participating in the blockchain network by validating, storing, or relaying data.

#### **Permissioned Network**

A blockchain system where participation is restricted to approved entities.

#### **Permissionless Network**

A blockchain system that allows open participation without centralized approval.

#### **Transaction Finality**

The point at which a transaction is considered irreversible by the network.

#### **Validator**

A network participant responsible for verifying transactions and maintaining ledger integrity.


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