Blockchain for PHP Developers: A Complete Guide

Blockchain technology is something PHP developers need to understand as cryptocurrency continues to grow. Read this guide to blockchain for PHP developers.

No doubt you’ve heard of cryptocurrency, a type of digital asset that functions like money. The most famous one is Bitcoin, a pioneer in cryptocurrency technology.

Bitcoin and other cryptocurrencies seem to be poised to disrupt banking as we know it. Bitcoin has been expanding at an incredible rate, growing over 100% year over year since its inception in 2010.

Lucky for you, we’ve got a complete guide to blockchain for PHP developers. Keep reading to find out all you need to know.

What Is A Blockchain?

In a traditional monetary exchange system, people rely on banks and the government. Those two institutions make a lot of decisions and ensure the value of any assets you own.

Blockchains rely on a distributed ledger, a record of any transactions. These records, called facts, can be anything, including digital signatures or assets.

Where banks would make the decision as to what constitutes a fact, blockchains use anonymous individuals to create a consensus.

Blockchain and Cryptocurrencies

When Bitcoin hit the scene, it was seen as exciting and revolutionary. Bitcoin allowed people to transfer digital assets between each other without an intermediary.

This is one of the reasons blockchain technology is set to crack a billion dollars in the near future. If you’re not studying blockchain for PHP developers, you risk being left in the dust.

APIs and SDKs for PHP Developers

You can’t build a blockchain without an API, an Application Programming Interface. APIs provide consistency in your blockchain.

Some APIs that are available include the Mobius API, Bittrex exchange web, and GDAX. There are tons more options available; work with one that best fits you and your company’s needs. There are even some available for free that don’t require a key to access.

Once you’ve got an API you want to work with, you’ll need an SDK, software development kit, to really get the most out of it. Many of the aforementioned APIs have SDKs that work in tandem with them.

For example, you can use GDAX Python GUI SDK by Pierre Rochard or Mobius NodeJS SDK.

Other Uses for Blockchain

Now that we understand how cryptocurrencies are poised to disrupt banking, let’s take a look at some other ways to use it.

• Patient records can be saved and transferred instantly
• Digital assets, such as art and music, can be copyrighted through consensus
• Contracts can be finalized through a blockchain
• Electronic voting will be completely changed through the blockchain

Understanding blockchain for PHP developers is key to staying ahead of the changing tide. Many jobs could disappear when these industries change; make sure you’re on sturdy ground.

Applying Blockchain for PHP Developers

Now you understand how crucial it is to employ blockchain in your strategy for staying relevant. Start creating a game plan now as to how to apply it to your projects.

Looking for a leg up in the new world of blockchains, APIs, SDKs, and cryptocurrency? Talk to us and we’ll give you a free quote on what you need to succeed.

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