What Is Succinct Proofs of Random Access (SPoRA)?

Succinct Proofs of Random Access (SPoRA) is a consensus mechanism used to confirm transactions and validate blocks on the Arweave decentralized network. Instead of relying on energy-intensive computational work like Bitcoin does with Proof of Work, Arweave uses SPoRA to verify blocks and confirm transactions in a more efficient manner.

SPoRA allows miners on the Arweave network to prove they have access to random historical data. This eliminates the need for repetitively solving cryptographic puzzles in order to add new blocks to the chain.

Why Is SPoRA Important for the Arweave Network?

Arweave aims to build a novel decentralized data storage protocol that allows permanent and immutable data storage. The goal is to build a sustainable and long-lasting data archive - like a permanent internet.

To make this vision a reality, Arweave needs a way to validate blocks and confirm transactions that is reliable and secure but does not require massive amounts of computational energy. This is where SPoRA comes in.

SPoRA allows Arweave to be extremely energy-efficient compared to proof-of-work networks. This is essential for ensuring the sustainability and decentralized nature of the Arweave network over the long term.

How Exactly Does SPoRA Work Under the Hood?

The SPoRA protocol requires miners to competitively prove that they can access random segments of historical data that are spread across the Arweave network.

Each time a miner makes a guess for the hash value to create a new block, SPoRA forces them to read a small chunk of old data and its proof from their own stored version of the Arweave blockchain.

If the miner has the correct data, their guess is considered valid. This allows the network to reach a consensus and confirm transactions without needing to solve intensive computational puzzles.