Byzantine Generals’ Problem: Crypto and Blockchain: Understanding the Technology and Challenges It Presents

Overview

This two-part course provides a structured introduction to the foundational concepts behind blockchain technology and cryptocurrencies, including how cryptography secures transactions, how consensus protocols achieve agreement across decentralized networks, and how digital signatures and mining underpin the integrity of distributed ledgers. From there, the course turns to the legal and security dimensions that matter most to advisors and organizations operating in or around the decentralized finance space. Participants will gain a working understanding of how these systems are governed—and where governance gaps create risk. The course is designed to equip legal, compliance, and executive professionals with the fluency needed to ask the right questions and make informed decisions.

What you’ll learn

• ✓Explain how blockchain consensus protocols establish trust in the absence of a central authority
• ✓Describe the role of cryptography and digital signatures in securing cryptocurrency transactions
• ✓Identify the governance structures and failure points common to decentralized networks
• ✓Recognize the legal and regulatory considerations that arise when advising clients operating in the decentralized finance space
• ✓Assess the security risks associated with blockchain-based systems, including smart contract vulnerabilities and custodial arrangements
• ✓Apply this foundational knowledge to evaluate organizational exposure when engaging with cryptocurrency or blockchain-based assets

Curriculum

1. 1. Byzantine Generals’ Problem: Crypto and Blockchain: Understanding the Technology and Challenges It Presents  Part 1 of 2

   “Lawyers, Bitcoin is not Blockchain.” In Part 1 of this seminar, our expert speakers break down blockchain technology, deliver a clear and expansive explanation of cryptocurrencies such as Bitcoin and Ethereum, and explain what makes encryption technology safe and functional. They delve into the ‘cost of trust’ in a “traditionally trustless environment” and the creation of tamper-resistant ledgers for a community. What is the difference between public and private keys? How does phishing play a role in cryptocurrencies? Topics covered in this webinar: Blockchain Basics Cryptography 101 Append Only Ledgers

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2. 2. Byzantine Generals’ Problem: Crypto and Blockchain: Understanding the Technology and Challenges It Presents  Part 2 of 2

   In Part 2 of this seminar, our expert speakers discuss consensus protocols and decentralized systems, expand on digital signatures and transactions, and discuss network ecosystems, incentives, and mining. Our speakers also delve into governance, forks, and collective action, concluding their conversation with the key takeaways from a legal perspective. Topics covered in this webinar: Consensus Digital Signatures & Transactions Decentralized Networks, Incentives & Mining Governance, Forks, and Collective Action Takeaways from a Legal Perspective

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