Blockchain and Cryptography Overview (Coursera)

Offered by SkillUp EdTech,
Blockchain and Cryptography Overview (Coursera)

The Blockchain and Cryptography Overview course is a part of the Certified Blockchain Security Professional (CBSP) Exam Prep Specialization and introduces you to fundamental cryptographic principles. You will gain insight into concepts such as hash functions in blockchain, core components and advantages of blockchain, and assumptions and challenges in blockchain security. You will also learn about core blockchain concepts, highlight security measures against prevalent threats, and comprehend consensus security challenges while exploring well-known algorithms like Proof of Work and Proof of Stake.

Class Deals by MOOC List - Click here and see Coursera's Active Discounts, Deals, and Promo Codes.

By the end of this course, you will be able to:

  1. Describe the purpose of hash functions and public key cryptography in blockchain security.
  2. Explore the fundamentals of blockchain technology, including blocks, chains, and network security, and identify and encounter basic threats.
  3. Analyze the security of Proof of Work (PoW) and Proof of Stake (PoS) and alternative consensus methods.

The courses in this specialization are designed for individuals interested in blockchain security and cybersecurity and are suitable for both coding and non-coding professionals.
This course is part of the Certified Blockchain Security Professional (CBSP) Exam Prep Specialization.

What you'll learn

  • Describe the purpose of hash functions and public key cryptography in blockchain security.
  • Explore the fundamentals of blockchain technology, including blocks, chains, and network security, and identify and encounter basic threats.
  • Analyze the security of Proof of Work (PoW), Proof of Stake (PoS), and alternative consensus methods.

Syllabus

Cryptography and Blockchain Basics
This module will cover the cryptography basics of blockchain, like hash functions and digital signatures using public key cryptography. The module also introduces you to the core components and advantages of blockchain and the assumptions and challenges in blockchain security, such as the vulnerability of losing private keys and different types of wallets. Finally, you will also learn about the factors influencing blockchain risk appraisal.

Consensus: Backbone of Blockchain Technology
In this module, you will learn about blockchain fundamentals, its promises, and the security essentials. From understanding the basics to recognizing potential threats, this module provides a concise overview, setting the stage for deeper insights into blockchain technology.

Basics of Blockchain Security and Smart Contracts
In this module, you will be introduced to the fundamentals of blockchain security and smart contracts. You will gain insight into key concepts such as user safety, node and network safety, and an overview of smart contracts. The module also delves into the security aspects of smart contracts and the process of auditing them.

Peer-Reviewed Assignment
This is a peer-review assignment based on the concepts taught in the Blockchain and Cryptography Overview course. In this assignment, you will be able to explain the various consensus mechanisms and highlight the security measures that can be implemented to protect the blockchain networks.

Go to Class
MOOC List is learner-supported. When you buy through links on our site, we may earn an affiliate commission.

Related Courses

How to Get Into Blockchain (Coursera) Coursera
University of Leeds

How to Get Into Blockchain (Coursera)

Blockchain technologies, the driving force behind cryptocurrencies, have the potential to revolutionise the exchange of value, ownership and transactions by providing trust, security and transparency. The blockchain industry is booming and it's projected to grow so if you are looking for a lucrative career path, then a specialisation in blockchain technologies is one of the best tech career moves. This online course teaches you how to navigate the fascinating world of blockchain technologies.

Aug 31st 2026
2 Weeks
Identifying Security Vulnerabilities (Coursera) Coursera
University of California, Davis

Identifying Security Vulnerabilities (Coursera)

This course will help you build a foundation of some of the fundamental concepts in secure programming. We will learn about the concepts of threat modeling and cryptography and you'll be able to start to create threat models, and think critically about the threat models created by other people. We'll learn the basics of applying cryptography, such as encryption and secure hashing. We'll learn how attackers can exploit application vulnerabilities through the improper handling user-controlled data. We'll gain a fundamental understanding of injection problems in web applications, including the three most common types of injection problems: SQL injection, cross-site scripting, and command injection.

Aug 24th 2026
4 Weeks
An Introduction to Logic for Computer Science (Coursera) Coursera
University of Leeds

An Introduction to Logic for Computer Science (Coursera)

Logic plays a fundamental role in computer science. This course is designed to equip you with a solid understanding of the fundamental principles of logic and their relevance in the field of computer science. In this course, you'll explore proposition logic and discover its practical applications in problem-solving, algorithm design, and the development of intelligent systems. By engaging in hands-on exercises, exploring real-world examples, and participating in discussions, you'll develop strong logical reasoning and critical thinking skills.

Aug 24th 2026
2 Weeks
Blockchain, Cryptoassets, and Decentralized Finance (Coursera) Coursera
INSEAD

Blockchain, Cryptoassets, and Decentralized Finance (Coursera)

Today, large intermediaries establish trust in our economy and control the movement, storage, and allocation of money and assets. The status quo, however, is rife with inefficiencies. In this course, we’ll address the many challenges of the status quo and discuss how cryptoassets, smart contracts, new identity systems, and new financial business models can help overcome them. You’ll learn how blockchain technology empowers individuals, entrepreneurs, and businesses with the tools they need to help level the playing field and to participate in the value they create.

Aug 24th 2026
4 Weeks
Introduction to Blockchain for Financial Services (Coursera) Coursera
INSEAD

Introduction to Blockchain for Financial Services (Coursera)

In this first course of the specialization, we will discuss the limitations of the Internet for business and economic activity, and explain how blockchain technology represents the way forward. After completing this course, you will be able to explain what blockchain is, how it works, and why it is revolutionary. You will learn key concepts such as mining, hashing, proof-of-work, public key cryptography, and the double-spend problem.

Aug 24th 2026
5-12 Weeks
Blockchain Transformations of Financial Services (Coursera) Coursera
INSEAD

Blockchain Transformations of Financial Services (Coursera)

The current global financial system is riddled with inefficiencies, uneven developments, and bizarre contradictions. Blockchain technology has the potential to bring about profound changes to financial services. In this course, you will learn how blockchain technology will disrupt the core functions of the financial services industry, offering individuals and organizations alike real choices in how they create and manage value.

Aug 24th 2026
4 Weeks
Blockchain Theory and Applications Ⅱ (Coursera) Coursera
Pohang University of Science and Technology - POSTECH

Blockchain Theory and Applications Ⅱ (Coursera)

This course is the second part of the two parts course on Blockchain Theory and Applications. This course will provide important aspects of blockchain and cryptocurrency. It will introduce how to create decentralized applications (DApps), EOS, one of the popular third-generation blockchains, consensus algorithms, Hyperledger projects, token economy, cryptocurrencies, and cryptocurrency exchanges.

Sep 7th 2026
5-12 Weeks
Blockchains, Tokens, and The Decentralized Future (Coursera) Coursera
Illinois Tech

Blockchains, Tokens, and The Decentralized Future (Coursera)

Dive into the transformative world of blockchain with our course, designed to navigate the complexities of digital currencies, smart contracts, and decentralized applications. Whether you're intrigued by Bitcoin, Ethereum, or the broader implications of blockchain for industries and governance, this course offers deep insights and practical knowledge to leverage blockchain technology for innovation and problem-solving. Perfect for both beginners and seasoned enthusiasts, it's your gateway to mastering the blockchain ecosystem and its burgeoning impact on the digital age.

Aug 31st 2026
4 Weeks
An Introduction to Cryptography (Coursera) Coursera
University of Leeds

An Introduction to Cryptography (Coursera)

Cryptography is an essential part of secure but accessible communication that's critical for our everyday life and organisations use it to protect their privacy and keep their conversations and data confidential. This course provides a comprehensive introduction to the fascinating world of cryptography, covering both historical cyphers and modern-day cryptographic techniques.

Aug 24th 2026
2 Weeks
Empowering with web3.js: Web3 Applications (Coursera) Coursera
EDUCBA

Empowering with web3.js: Web3 Applications (Coursera)

Embark on a transformative journey into decentralized applications with our comprehensive course, "Get Started Building Web3 Apps using web3.js." This program is tailored for individuals eager to delve into blockchain development, focusing on Ethereum, a leading platform in the blockchain space. You will gain a solid foundation in web development concepts, including HTML, CSS, and JavaScript, with optional exposure to frameworks like React or Angular.

Sep 7th 2026
4 Weeks
Cybersecurity Threat Vectors and Mitigation (Coursera) Coursera
Microsoft

Cybersecurity Threat Vectors and Mitigation (Coursera)

This course provides a comprehensive overview of threat vectors and the strategies for mitigating them, and aims to equip you with the necessary skills and knowledge to safeguard against cyber threats. You’ll gain a deep understanding of the threat vectors used by attackers, discover encryption techniques, and explore different compliance concepts.

Aug 24th 2026
5-12 Weeks
Blockchain Business Models (Coursera) Coursera
Duke University

Blockchain Business Models (Coursera)

Blockchain is an emerging and highly disruptive technology that is poorly understood. In this course you will learn what blockchain is and how it can create value by tokenization in cryptocurrencies and in many other practical applications. The applications include: stablecoins (like Facebook’s Libra and JP Morgan’s JPMCoin), machine to machine payments, identity protection, supply chain management (Walmart, Maersk, IBM), secure voting, distributed exchanges, decentralized finance, property transfers, central bank fiat crypto (e.g., Fedcoin and China’s digital Renminbi), dispensing prescription drugs, private records, intellectual property, financial reporting, and media and advertising, to name a few.

Aug 24th 2026
4 Weeks