3 Types of Blockchain Networks

3 min readSep 10, 2021

The advent of blockchain networks has revolutionized the technological ecosystem. Though blockchain technology is yet to be fully embraced in various sectors of the economy around the World, it has so far experienced high penetration over the years. This is attributed to advanced features that come with blockchain.

While the blockchain technology used across the World is similar, they target different end-users. As such, we highlight different types of blockchain networks in the World.

Public Blockchain

A public blockchain network is more transparent and secure as long as users adhere to strict security measures. A major drawback about public networks is that it is difficult for companies to restrict access and is a bit slow. Due to an open-source code, anyone on the network can verify transactions.

Additionally, being permissionless and nonrestrictive makes it easier for anyone to access. Unlike private blockchains that are accessed through invites only, public blockchains target the general public.

Private Blockchain

Contrary to public networks that are nonrestrictive, private blockchains operate in a restrictive environment. Typically, the network is private and controlled by a single entity.

Though the network operates through decentralized and peer-to-peer connections similar to public blockchains, it exists on a small scale. Unlike public networks that can be accessed by anyone, private networks run in small entities.

In terms of efficiency, private blockchains are faster than public blockchains. This is attributed to their limited size which enables them to process transactions more quickly.

On the flip side, it’s argued that private blockchain is not a real blockchain since it erodes the core feature of decentralization associated with blockchain networks. On the other hand, private blockchains are ideal for use by entities that opt for a highly secure network to carry out fast transactions.

Further, entities can leverage features that come with a private blockchain to protect their private data. Some of the areas that private security can be applied to include data protection, the integrity of internal voting, supply chain management, and asset ownership.

Hybrid Blockchain

Hybrid blockchain blends both private and public blockchain features. Generally, the hybrid blockchain system offers infrastructure under which entities can combine both permission-based systems, private and permissionless networks.

Besides allowing an organization to determine who stores data on the platform, the hybrid blockchain network controls the type of data that can be made public. In this case, though private data is kept on the network, it can still be verified. While users can have full access to the platform, their identity is highly protected lest they engage in transactions.

Unlike public blockchain that are not highly secure, a hybrid blockchain operates in an enclosed system which makes it difficult for hackers to hack through. Additionally, the hybrid blockchain infrastructure is not only scalable but also fast and cheap.

Final Thoughts

Blockchain technology has drawn the interest of many organizations Worldwide. Besides data protection, blockchain technology comes with advanced security features aimed at scaling network security. In that case, if you haven’t integrated a blockchain network into your system, it’s high time you consider installing one.