Learn how OKTC leverages the Cosmos SDK, EVM compatibility, and Tendermint Core's BFT consensus to deliver a high-performance, secure blockchain with fast finality. This guide explores the modular architecture, key stakeholders, and technical components powering OKTC.
Cosmos SDK: Modular Blockchain Framework
OKTC harnesses the full composability of the Cosmos SDK, enabling developers to build customizable blockchain applications. Key features include:
- Modularity: Plug-and-play modules for staking, governance, and EVM compatibility.
- Interoperability: Native support for IBC (Inter-Blockchain Communication).
- Developer Flexibility: Supports multiple programming languages via ABCI.
👉 Explore Cosmos SDK capabilities
Tendermint Core: Byzantine Fault Tolerant Consensus
Tendermint Core provides the foundation for OKTC's consensus with:
- BFT State Machine Replication: Ensures all nodes process transactions identically.
Two Core Components:
- Consensus Engine: Orders transactions via Tendermint Core.
- ABCI Interface: Processes transactions in any programming language.
Unlike monolithic blockchains, Tendermint separates consensus from application logic, offering unparalleled flexibility.
Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT) in OKTC
How BFT Ensures Security
- 1/3 Fault Tolerance: Resists malicious actors controlling ≤33% of the network.
- Safety Over Liveness: Halts during disruptions until 2/3 validators reach consensus.
- 66% Attack Resistance: More secure than Nakamoto consensus (51% vulnerable).
Did You Know?
Tendermint's BFT model never forks under asynchrony if faulty validators are <1/3. Learn more in Delegated Byzantine Fault Tolerance (dBFT).
Consensus Participants
OKTC's ecosystem relies on three key roles:
- Validators
Nodes verifying transactions and proposing blocks. Top 21 validators by stake weight are active per epoch. - Proposers
Validators selected via weighted round-robin to create new blocks. - Delegators
OKT holders who delegate voting power based on validator reputation and infrastructure.
Delegator Influence
Delegators shape network security by:
- Staking tokens to reputable validators.
- Decentralizing voting power distribution.
- Earning rewards proportional to their stake.
Tendermint Consensus Algorithm: Step-by-Step
The 5-Phase Process
- NewHeight
Initializes a new block height. - Propose
Selected validator broadcasts a block proposal. - Pre-vote
Validators vote on the proposal. A polka (2/3 approval) is required. - Pre-commit
Validators lock onto the block if polka is achieved. - Commit
Block is finalized and added to the chain.
Key Terms:
- Round: Propose → Pre-vote → Pre-commit phases.
- Validator Lock-in: Once pre-committed, validators must justify unlocking via a new polka.
ABCI: Bridging Tendermint and Applications
The Application Blockchain Interface (ABCI) enables:
| Message Type | Purpose |
|---|---|
DeliverTx | Processes transactions & updates state. |
CheckTx | Validates transactions pre-mempool. |
Commit | Computes Merkle root for block headers. |
Developers can build in any language by implementing ABCI endpoints.
EVM Compatibility on OKTC
OKTC mirrors Ethereum's developer experience with:
- Ethereum TX Format: Cosmos-compatible transaction types.
- secp256k1 Keys: Same curve as Ethereum wallets.
- StateDB Interface: Familiar state query/update methods.
- JSON-RPC Support: Full compatibility with Ethereum tools like MetaMask.
FAQ: OKTC Consensus Explained
What makes Tendermint BFT different from PoW?
Tendermint offers instant finality and energy efficiency by replacing mining with stake-weighted validation.
How are validators chosen?
Validators are ranked by delegated stake. The top 21 by voting power propose blocks in rotation.
Can OKTC interact with Ethereum dApps?
Yes! EVM compatibility allows seamless deployment of Ethereum smart contracts via JSON-RPC.
What happens if <2/3 validators are online?
The network pauses (prioritizing safety) until sufficient validators reconnect.
How does delegation impact security?
Delegators incentivize validators to act honestly by staking to reputable nodes.
Is ABCI mandatory for OKTC apps?
Yes, all applications must implement ABCI to interface with Tendermint Core.