Brothers, hello everyone. Today I will give you a detailed introduction to CKB. I believe many people are familiar with it.
CKB is the underlying L1 blockchain of the Nervos Network, which operates in a similar way to Bitcoin, using a Proof of Work (PoW) consensus mechanism. It uses NC-MAX, an upgraded version of the Bitcoin algorithm, to improve network efficiency and responsiveness by speeding up transaction confirmation times and reducing orphan block rates. Bitcoin targets a 10-minute block interval and adjusts mining difficulty approximately every two weeks. CKB dynamically adjusts the block interval (approximately every four hours) based on changes in network activity to optimize performance.
Nervos Network is one of the scalability solutions for Bitcoin, adopting a more native approach by modifying the UTXO model that underpins Bitcoin. It improves upon the RGB protocol, providing Turing-complete contract capabilities for Bitcoin without the need for cross-chain bridges.
CKB uses the Eaglesong function to ensure the security of the network, which is an ASIC-neutral customized hash function that can replace the widely used SHA256 hash function. Eaglesong is a sponge function optimized for multiple cryptographic elements, providing the same level of security as other proof-of-work (PoW) hash functions, specifically tailored for the Nervos Network.
The Cell model is the core of the $CKB data structure, allowing any data to be stored and validated on-chain. The original scripting language and UTXO model of Bitcoin limit the complexity needed for executing smart contracts. In contrast, CKB generalizes the UTXO model, allowing for more flexible data storage and validation. Unlike Bitcoin, which uses a single script to validate transactions, CKB introduces dual scripts in its Cell model:
(1) Lock Script ensures that only authorized users can access and use the contents of the Cell, similar to Bitcoin.
(2) Type Script is an optional script used to set the rules for how the Cell can be used or modified in future transactions.
CKB-VM is the execution engine of CKB, #CKB助力比特币生态 used to run smart contracts and decentralized applications. This virtual machine uses the RISC-V instruction set, which is a flexible, simple open-source hardware architecture set (ISA) that supports various programming languages, including popular languages like C and Rust. This broad compatibility distinguishes CKB-VM from other blockchains' virtual machines, which are typically limited to specific languages, opening it up to a wider developer community. The CKB network also supports SDKs for mainstream languages such as JavaScript, Rust, Go, and Java, making it convenient for developers to use familiar tools for development. This makes it easier for developers to create complex decentralized applications using familiar programming languages.
CKB leverages the RGB++ protocol to extend Bitcoin, a protocol that serves as an asset issuance standard that enhances Bitcoin's capabilities on CKB. The RGB++ protocol enables complex smart contracts and asset management operations, which are typically not feasible on the Bitcoin network. The original RGB protocol was an L2 solution aimed at enabling smart contracts and asset issuance for Bitcoin without altering the Bitcoin mainnet. It binds assets to specific Bitcoin UTXOs, allowing these assets to transfer along with the UTXOs themselves. The RGB protocol primarily relies on client validation, with transactions processed and verified off-chain, thereby reducing the load on the Bitcoin network. However, this approach also has limitations, such as potential issues with data availability — since data is not stored on-chain, it may not be readily accessible when needed. Additionally, reliance on client validation increases complexity, which could impact user experience.
As of this writing, 9.2 billion CKB tokens have been deposited into the Nervos DAO. The deposit circulation ratio of CKB is 20.84%, which has been on a downward trend over the past two years. This decline may be due to the increasing number of unspent Cells on CKB.
As the demand for scalability and functionality beyond Bitcoin's original features continues to grow, the Bitcoin L2 market is also continuing to develop. Various L2 solutions, such as the Lightning Network, sidechains, and Rollups, aim to address these issues by moving transactions off the main chain, thereby increasing Bitcoin's throughput without compromising security. However, these solutions often bring new complexities and security challenges. What sets Nervos apart is its extension of the RGB protocol through RGB++. RGB++ provides native extensions for Bitcoin, integrating deeper smart contract capabilities directly related to the Bitcoin UTXO model. These capabilities, in turn, facilitate a more seamless and secure expansion of Bitcoin's usability. Additionally, work is underway to connect payment channel networks with the Lightning Network, which will enhance CKB's scalability for various blockchain applications.
