Blockchain 1.0 to Blockchain 4.0—Evolution, Transformation and Comparison of Different Generations
Nikhil Pateria, Nikita Tiwari · 2025
Blockchain technology’s development has been a revolutionary journey that has completely changed how we perceive and conduct transactions and revolutionised a number of sectors. The cutting-edge journey of blockchain technology through its developmental stages, from the first version of Blockchain to its latest version, is thoroughly explored in this book chapter. Beginning with foundational principles of Bitcoin and its decentralized ledger in first generation of blockchain, whereas blockchain 2.0 introduces programmable transactions and smart contracts. Delving into the era of interoperability and scalability in Blockchain 3.0, the chapter discusses the emergence of interconnected blockchain networks. Furthermore, it investigates the cutting-edge developments in Blockchain 4.0, highlighting the amalgamation of Internet of Things (IoT), Artificial Intelligence with consensus mechanisms to achieve unparalleled security and efficiency. This thorough analysis looks at the latest developments, cutting-edge applications, and unresolved research issues within the field of blockchain technology.