What ensures the integrity of data recorded on the blockchain?

The integrity of data recorded on the blockchain is primarily ensured through a combination of consensus protocols and cryptography. Consensus protocols are mechanisms that allow nodes within the blockchain network to agree on the validity of transactions before they are added to the blockchain. This prevents any single entity from having control over the entire network and ensures that only legitimate transactions are confirmed.

Cryptography, on the other hand, plays a crucial role in securing the data. Each block in the blockchain contains a cryptographic hash of the previous block, which links them securely. This linkage makes it nearly impossible to alter any information in a block without altering all subsequent blocks, as any change would invalidate the hashes. Additionally, cryptographic techniques ensure that data is tamper-proof, authenticated, and confidential.

In contrast, data encryption alone does not ensure integrity; it primarily protects the confidentiality of data. Regular data backups are essential for data recovery but do not prevent unauthorized changes. Central authority verification contradicts the decentralized nature of blockchain, which relies on distributed consensus rather than a single point of control. Therefore, the combination of consensus protocols and cryptography serves as the cornerstone of maintaining the integrity of data on the blockchain.