Hybrid Consensus Algorithm Based on Modified Proof-of-Probability and DPoS

• Main Authors: Baocheng Wang, Zetao Li, Haibin Li
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Published: MDPI AG 2020-07-01
• Series: Future Internet
• Subjects: blockchain; consensus algorithm; hash; transaction; voting
• Online Access: https://www.mdpi.com/1999-5903/12/8/122

As the core of blockchain technology, the consensus algorithm plays an important role in determining the security, data consistency, and efficiency of blockchain systems. The existing mainstream consensus algorithm is experiencing difficulties satisfying the needs of efficiency, security, and decentralization in real-world scenarios. This paper proposes a hybrid consensus algorithm based on modified Proof-of-Probability and Delegated Proof-of-Stake. In this method, the work of block generation and validation is, respectively, completed by the nodes using the modified Proof-of-Probability consensus algorithm and Delegated Proof-of-Stake consensus algorithm. When a transaction occurs, the system sends several target hash values to the whole network. Each modified Proof-of-Probability node has a different sorting algorithm, so they have different mining priorities. Every time a hash is decrypted by a modified Proof-of-Probability node, the modulo operation is done to the value of nonce, which is then compared with the expected value given by the supernode selected by the Delegated Proof-of-Stake nodes. If they are not the same, the Proof-of-Probability node enters the waiting time and the other Proof-of-Probability nodes continue to mine. By adopting two consensus algorithms, the malicious nodes must control more than 51% of the nodes that adopt the two consensus algorithms, at the same time, to effectively attack the system, that is, they must have more than 51% of the computing power and more than 51% of the tokens. This not only increases the cost of malicious attacks, but also reduces waste of computing power. In addition, the efficiency of the DPoS algorithm makes up for the deficiency of the PoP algorithm in system efficiency, and the mining behavior based on probability in the PoP algorithm also significantly weakens the ability of supernodes in the DPoS algorithm to conduct monopoly behavior or other malicious behaviors. In a word, the combination of the two algorithms makes the system perform better in terms of security, system efficiency, and decentralization.