Fork (Blockchain)

Definition

A fork occurs when a blockchain diverges into two or more paths. Soft forks tighten rules (backward compatible); hard forks change rules incompatibly. Post-quantum migration often requires hard forks to introduce new signature algorithms across the network.

Technical Explanation

Fork types: temporary (resolved by consensus), soft (new stricter rules, old nodes still valid), hard (incompatible changes, network split). Contentious hard forks create permanent chain splits; planned upgrades coordinate migration.

Quantum migration: transitioning from ECDSA to post-quantum signatures typically requires hard forks. The network must agree on new algorithms, signature formats, and transaction validation rules. Phased rollouts allow gradual adoption.

SynX Relevance

SynX launched with quantum-resistant cryptography natively—no migration fork needed. The network uses Kyber-768 and SPHINCS+ from genesis. Future algorithm upgrades (cryptographic agility) may use controlled hard forks with community coordination.

Frequently Asked Questions

Will SynX ever fork for quantum upgrades?: Not for initial quantum resistance (built-in). Future algorithm updates may require coordinated upgrades.
Do forks affect my holdings?: Planned upgrades: update your software. Contentious forks: your keys work on both chains.
How do hard forks work?: At a set block height, new rules activate. Nodes must upgrade to follow the new chain.

Quantum-resistant from genesis. No migration needed with SynX