Publication Date
Spring 2024
Degree Type
Master's Project
Degree Name
Master of Science in Computer Science (MSCS)
Department
Computer Science
First Advisor
Thomas Austin
Second Advisor
Robert Chun
Third Advisor
Katerina Potika
Keywords
Proof of Useful Work (uPoW), Blockchain, Cryptocurrency mining, Keypair cryptography, Energy-efficient blockchain, Decentralized transaction validation
Abstract
The Proof of Work (PoW) consensus used by many blockchain networks like Bitcoin has been criticized for its excessive energy consumption and lack of tangible utility beyond maintaining the network. This report proposes a Proof of Useful Work (uPoW) protocol as an alternative consensus mechanism that utilizes computational resources to solve intrinsically valuable problems. Specifically, it explores the implementation of uPoW on the SpartanGold blockchain test network, where miners must solve Sudoku puzzles to validate new blocks. The report examines the shortcomings of traditional Proof-of-Work protocols, such as their environmental impact and inefficient use of computing power. It then delves into the formulation and deployment of the Sudoku-based uPoW protocol on SpartanGold, highlighting the challenges in defining appropriate computational puzzles, adjusting difficulty levels, and constructing an effective validation mechanism for miners’ solutions. An empirical evaluation demonstrates the Sudoku uPoW protocol’s performance against that of the SpartanGold testnet’s native PoW implementation. Furthermore, the report explores security considerations, incentive structures, and potential real-world applications of repurposing mining efforts towards solving meaningful computational problems, contributing to the ongoing discourse around sustainable and practical consensus mechanisms for blockchain networks.
Recommended Citation
Padaki, Abishek, "Sudoku as a Proof of Useful Work Protocol on the Blockchain" (2024). Master's Projects. 1379.
https://scholarworks.sjsu.edu/etd_projects/1379
