# Haven1 Blockchain basics

## Understanding Public, Permissioned Networks

### A Primer on Blockchain Technology Fundamentals

Blockchain technology fundamentally reshapes the way data is stored and transactions are recorded and verified. It's a decentralized, distributed ledger technology (DLT) where each block contains a number of transactions. Every time a new transaction occurs on the blockchain, a record of that transaction is added to every participant's ledger.

### **Types of Blockchain Networks**

* **Public Blockchains**: These are open and decentralized networks where anyone can join and participate in the network. The most well-known public blockchains are Bitcoin and Ethereum. Transactions on public blockchains are transparent and immutable.
* **Permissioned Blockchains**: These networks are typically used purpose-built as opposed to general-purpose blockchains and can be private. In permissioned blockchains, access is restricted to certain users, and the network owner has control over who can participate.

<figure><img src="/files/zWONunWXVulORvTCcqid" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>

### Context of Haven1

Haven1 utilizes a permissioned blockchain model, building on the foundation of GoQuorum, which is a modification of Ethereum’s standard protocol. In Haven1’s context:

* **Robust Security Framework**: The primary focus of Haven1 is to bolster security, a crucial aspect for enterprises dealing with sensitive information. Utilizing GoQuorum's advanced features, Haven1 ensures a highly secure network, safeguarding data and transactions.
* **Controlled Access**: Haven1's blockchain network access is meticulously controlled. Only verified and authorized entities are granted access, which is essential for applications that prioritize data integrity and a secure operational environment. This level of regulated access is key in ensuring that the network remains secure and functional for real-world assets.

### Smart Contracts and Consensus Mechanisms in Haven1

### Smart Contracts in Haven1

Smart contracts are self-executing contracts where the terms of the agreement are directly written into lines of code. In Haven1:

* **Enhanced Smart Contract Functionality**: Haven1 enhances GoQuorum's smart contract capabilities, enabling the development of more complex and secure contract structures. This is particularly beneficial for real-world assets and applications, where the complexity and security of contracts are crucial.

### Consensus Mechanisms in Haven1

Consensus mechanisms are fundamental to blockchain technology, ensuring that all transactions are verified and agreed upon by the network. Haven1 inherits&#x20;

* **GoQuorum’s Consensus Mechanisms**: Haven1 inherits GoQuorum’s consensus mechanisms, which are more efficient for consortium and enterprise use, like Istanbul BFT and Raft-based consensus.
* **Tailored for Enterprise Needs**: These mechanisms are particularly suited for Haven1’s scalability and security focus, providing faster and more efficient consensus than traditional Proof of Work (PoW) used in public blockchains.

<figure><img src="/files/wWW0QRj2vRHtjRDOwE7y" alt=""><figcaption></figcaption></figure>


---

# Agent Instructions: Querying This Documentation

If you need additional information that is not directly available in this page, you can query the documentation dynamically by asking a question.

Perform an HTTP GET request on the current page URL with the `ask` query parameter:

```
GET https://docs.haven1.org/learn/blockchain-basics.md?ask=<question>
```

The question should be specific, self-contained, and written in natural language.
The response will contain a direct answer to the question and relevant excerpts and sources from the documentation.

Use this mechanism when the answer is not explicitly present in the current page, you need clarification or additional context, or you want to retrieve related documentation sections.