How the Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies Have Contributed to the Advancements of Computer Hardware and Software

The advent of crypto has seen many changes occur in the modern world. Of these changes, some of the most prominent ones have emerged in the technological sector. Bitcoin’s rise to the top catapulted technological advancements and adoption all around the world as the sector evolved at a fast pace. As such, humanity has taken great strides in computer hardware and software advances since 2009. This explainer will explore the most impactful developments for computer hardware and software.

Hardware

This term refers to the physical components of the computers, such as CPUs. These components have been constantly developed since the creation of computers in the 19th century. However, with the advent of cryptos, the speed at which developments occurred was significantly bolstered, edging humanity closer to quantum computing. This boost was largely noted in components deemed critical for crypto mining. Since crypto mining is a tedious and complex process, miners and tech developers alike rushed to churn out better computer components. To drive up performance, manufacturers aimed to create more sophisticated computer parts to meet the needs of the mining processes. These components have become widely available on the market, improving tech adoption.

GPUs

GPUs are one of the most critical components of any mining rig. These processing units are the muscle required for the complex cryptographic process in crypto mining. These components deliver high-end performance, and as a result, the focus on improving them has grown in the last few years. In recent years companies such as Nvidia and AMD have rolled out various models improving performance and efficiency at every turn. Manufacturers have developed more powerful cores and processors to newer optimized versions of hardware. As a result, new developments such as the CUDA (Compute Unified Device Architecture) became mainstream in chip-related industries. The popularity of these GPUs resulted in attempts to test their utility in sectors such as artificial intelligence and machine learning. This move saw the components transition from gaming parts to essentials in shaping the world’s future.

Software
This term refers to the programs used to operate and complete functions on a computer. This facet of technology has seen a dramatic increase, with new developments being created regularly. These developments have transformed the crypto space and technology used by the global population. These software developments include:

DApps

Decentralized applications (DApps) are programs that capitalize on the use of smart contracts to complete specified functions. Ethereum kick-started the avalanche that is DApp creation through the launch of its DApp marketplace in 2016. The network then expanded its platform, becoming the foundation of the world’s DApp development. Consequently, some popular DApps such as cryptokitties, Steemit, and Augur rose to prominence in the marketplace.

Individuals do not own these DApps; instead, they function autonomously with minimal human interference. DApps distribute tokens that are instead used to determine ownership, a process overseen by algorithms. This feature has promoted transparency in blockchain networks. As a result, the DeFi space has seen its boundaries pushed forward: DApps have become a staple of finance, education, gaming, governance, security, and development. These DApps have, in the recent past, been identified as critical in the creation and maintenance of web 3.0. Hence, as development and adoption continue, DApps will play a critical role in many functions in the future of human society.

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