PoW is an indispensable component in blockchain

Blockchain, as a data replication system, has become a hyped term today, and this noise and hype can lead to increased misunderstandings about blockchain leading to the implementation of applications based on some incorrect assumptions and hypotheses.

In fact, without understanding the philosophy behind the “chaining of recorded data” and the main features of the blockchain, it cannot be utilized in a correct way.

Based on our research [1], we found blockchain to be ineffective without proof-of-work (PoW). Chaining data based on the hash of previous records without using PoW does not enhance the system's security.

While the blockchain structure may ensure data integrity by preventing tampering with historical transactions through the invalidation of subsequent blocks if one is altered, our article illustrated below demonstrates that its usefulness is conditional and limited.

[1] Read on ResearchGate

We have established that, under certain circumstances, the use of blockchain may be justifiable; otherwise, it loses its utility.

In our article, we argued and demonstrated that the connected blocks can be entirely replaced by an altered chain. This holds true either in the absence of a Sybil or DoS attack prevention mechanism—such as proof-of-work with sufficient difficulty level in proportion to the total hashing power of the network—or in a permissioned network.

A comprehensive video presentation on this matter is available on YouTube:
Watch on YouTube

Additionally, a narrated PowerPoint presentation is available on ResearchGate:
View on ResearchGate

Any comments are appreciated.