Immutability
Definition
Immutability means data cannot be altered or deleted once recorded. In blockchains, immutability comes from cryptographic linking—changing any block invalidates all subsequent blocks, making tampering computationally infeasible without controlling the majority of network resources.
Technical Explanation
Each block contains the hash of the previous block. Modifying old data changes that block's hash, breaking the chain. An attacker must recalculate every subsequent block's proof-of-work faster than honest miners extend the chain—requiring majority hashrate (51% attack).
Immutability strengthens over time: as more blocks confirm a transaction, reversing it becomes exponentially harder. After sufficient confirmations, transactions are practically irreversible, creating trust without requiring trust in any party.
SynX Relevance
SynX combines immutability with quantum-resistant cryptography. Even quantum computers cannot forge the SPHINCS+ signatures protecting transactions, ensuring immutability holds against future threats that could break classical blockchains.
Frequently Asked Questions
- Can blockchain data ever be changed?
- Technically possible with majority attack, but computationally prohibitive on healthy networks.
- How many confirmations make transactions immutable?
- More confirmations mean stronger immutability. Six is common; security needs vary.
- Does quantum computing threaten immutability?
- For classical chains, possibly. SynX's post-quantum design maintains immutability guarantees.
Permanent, tamper-proof records. Trust SynX