Turing completeness is a classification for a system of rules that can manipulate data. This term is named after computer scientist Alan Turing, inventor of the Turing machine. This classification is one of the differentiating factors of blockchain capabilities and performance.
Blockchain is a technology that allows recording transactions in a decentralized, transparent and secure manner. Blockchain can be used for various applications, from digital currency, smart contracts, to digital identity.
However, not all blockchains are created equal. There are several factors that differentiate blockchain capabilities and performance, one of which is Turing completeness.
Understanding Turing Completeness
Turing completeness is a classification for a system of rules that can manipulate data. This term is named after computer scientist Alan Turing, inventor of the Turing machine.
The Turing machine is a theoretical model of computing that can simulate any algorithm, thus becoming a benchmark for the universality of computing.
A system is said to be Turing complete if it can be used to simulate any Turing machine. This means that the system is able to recognize or decide other data manipulation rules.
Turing completeness is used as a way to express the power of a data manipulation system.
In simple terms, Turing completeness means that a system can perform any computation that a Turing machine can. This can happen as long as you have enough time and memory.
So, if someone says “my blockchain is Turing complete”, it means that in principle (though often not in practice) that blockchain can be used to solve any computational problem.
Example of a Turing Complete Blockchain
One example of a blockchain that is Turing complete is Ethereum. Ethereum is a blockchain platform that enables the development and execution of smart contracts. These are agreements that can be executed automatically by program code without the need for intermediaries.
Ethereum uses a programming language called Solidity, which is a Turing complete language. This means that Solidity can be used to write any program code that can be executed by a Turing machine.
The advantages of a Turing complete blockchain are flexibility and innovation. With a Turing complete blockchain, developers can create complex and sophisticated applications, which can offer a variety of functions and services to users.
For example, with Ethereum, developers can create decentralized applications (dApps) that can cover areas such as finance, gaming, social media, and others.
The Challenge of a Turing Complete Blockchain
Despite its advantages, Turing complete blockchains also have challenges and risks. One of the main challenges is scalability. Since a Turing complete blockchain can run any program code, this can place a huge burden on the network.
Every transaction or smart contract executed by the blockchain must be verified by all nodes (computers) connected to the network. This can cause slow transaction processing, high transaction fees, and low transaction capacity.
One other risk is security. Because a Turing complete blockchain can run any program code. So, this can also create security gaps that can be exploited by irresponsible parties.
For example, in 2016, there was an attack called the DAO hack. This attack occurred due to an error in the smart contract program code used by the organization.
Read also:
What is Blockchain 1.0? A Blockchain Starting Point
What is Blockchain 3.0? Blockchain Always More Up to Date
DISCLAIMER: This article is informational in nature and is not an offer or invitation to sell or buy any crypto assets. Trading crypto assets is a high-risk activity. Crypto asset prices are volatile, where prices can change significantly from time to time and Bittime is not responsible for changes in fluctuations in crypto asset exchange rates.
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