BLOCKCHAIN-BASED SECURE DATA SHARING AND PRIVACY PRESERVATION IN DECENTRALIZED EDGE COMPUTING NETWORKS

Abstract

This study explores the integration of blockchain technology into decentralized edge computing networks to enhance secure data sharing and privacy preservation. With the proliferation of Internet of Things (IoT) devices and the increasing need for real-time data processing, edge computing presents a promising solution, though it faces significant challenges related to data security and privacy. The research proposes a blockchain-based framework that utilizes decentralized ledgers and cryptographic techniques to address these challenges. The study evaluates the performance of the system in terms of transaction throughput, latency, energy consumption, and scalability across various network sizes. The results show that blockchain significantly enhances data privacy, with cryptographic methods like public-key encryption and zero-knowledge proofs proving effective in maintaining confidentiality. However, scalability remains a concern, as transaction throughput decreases and latency increases with the number of nodes in the network. The study demonstrates that Proof of Stake (PoS) consensus protocols outperform Proof of Work (PoW) in terms of energy efficiency specifically designed for limited resource edge environments. Evaluation of privacy functions integrated into products demonstrated extensive protection which blocks unauthorized entry.  The investigation examines various technical hurdles related to blockchain-edge computing integration that involve complex system architecture and insufficient available resources.  The study develops understanding of blockchain technology and edge computing through analyzing its ability to secure private decentralized data sharing.  The main research priority should be to enhance Blockchain protocol performance because this becomes the critical element for coping with scalability and speed problems.