Back to glossary

Ledger

A public ledger in crypto refers to a digital record of all transactions made on a particular blockchain. This record is maintained by a select group of network participants, known as full nodes, who keep a copy of the entire ledger and confirm the transfers.

Transactions are grouped into blocks, and these blocks are added to the ledger in a linear, chronological order, forming a chain of blocks. This process is known as blockchain. Each block contains a unique code called a “hash” that links it to the previous block, creating an unbroken chain of transactions.

The public ledger is distributed based on participant interest and geographic dispersion, as members connect and contribute to blockchain network activities, keeping it flexible and useful.