What is ZHash?
ZHash is a variant of the popular Equihash Proof of Work algorithm, which was developed as a solution that would increase the resistance of the algorithm versus the ASIC miners.
Why ZHash Was Needed
ASIC Resistance
- Bitmain released ASIC miners for Equihash
- Threatened network decentralization
- Made GPU mining less profitable
- Created centralization risks
Development Goals
- Maintain ASIC resistance
- Protect GPU miners
- Ensure decentralization
- Preserve network security
Technical Features
Algorithm Characteristics
- Memory-hard computation
- Modified Equihash parameters
- Optimized for GPUs
- Increased memory requirements
Mining Properties
- Fair distribution
- Energy efficient
- Stable difficulty adjustment
- Consistent block times
Benefits of ZHash
Decentralization
- Accessible to GPU miners
- Wider distribution of miners
- Reduced mining centralization
- Community participation
Security
- Strong resistance to ASICs
- Network protection
- Stable hashrate
- Fair competition
Implementation in BitcoinZ
BitcoinZ uses ZHash to:
- Ensure fair mining
- Maintain decentralization
- Protect against ASICs
- Support community miners
- Provide stable rewards
Future Considerations
The algorithm continues to:
- Adapt to new threats
- Maintain ASIC resistance
- Support decentralization
- Protect network security
ZHash represents BitcoinZ’s commitment to true decentralization and fair mining opportunities for all participants.