The lawsuit against the city and former finance director Rosalind Brooks-Harris, stemming from a bond offering, is now closed.

City, former finance director settle case with SEC - Rochester BeaconRochester Beacon

Beacon, an early-stage web3 accelerator, is excited to launch its fourth biannual three-month program, which provides startups with resources, mentorship, and capital.

Beacon Launches Its Fourth Web3 Accelerator Program, The Largest Cohort Yet

Beacon

beacon

Most of us have heard of WiFi beaconing or beacon flooding, or not? So what is it exactly and why does it matter for the purpose of this article? Before we dive into it let's explain some basic concepts we are going to be using. We usually consider wireless access point (AP) or multiple APs in the same extended service set (ESS) as one unified network. If we break it down further we will see that each ESS consists of multiple basic service sets (BSS). So, in reality, each AP has its own set of services, and each service is on its own VLAN. In order for a WiFi AP network to be visible to clients, each SSID on each band broadcasts a unique beacon frame. The beacon frame is a periodic advertisement broadcast from the AP to tell any listening devices that this SSID is available and has particular capabilities. Think of it as one of those spinning sign advert guys that shout at people who pass by . Client devices depend upon these beacon frames to discover what networks are available (passive scanning) and to ensure that the networks that they are associated with are actually still present and available. Each beacon frame (or probe ) contains a bunch of information about the specific SSID being offered. To mention some: SSID, BSSID, channel frequency, country, beacon interval (how often AP sends beacons out), etc. response A client also has the option to perform probe requests (active scanning). In this case, a client device sends a request to the AP to see what networks are available, and each SSID from each AP in range will send out a unicast (probe ) that has the same information as a beacon frame. response It's important to note here that while wifi beaconing is just an AP setting up multiple SSIDs purposely to make each of these different SSIDs an “ ” network, probe requests are considered as active scanning and can be taken as Distributed Denial-of-service attack (DDoS) because probe flooding can overwhelm the AP and even take it down temporarily. As this is illegal in many countries it is important to distinguish it from beacon flooding we are discussing here. independent What this means is that we can broadcast hundreds or even thousands of fake access points. Others that are in the area will see all of these fake access points and their names when they search for WiFi to connect to. As you can probably see, SSID flooding is not a denial of service. However, this is still a pretty cool trick. Now that we got this out of the way, let's go back to the subject. Beacon frames are usually utilized in: Stress testing the WiFi network Deauthentication attacks Probe request/response sniffing Hiding your legitimate wireless AP in a sea of fake access points (A sort of security through obscurity) And last but not least, it can be used to exfiltrate or leak data, play games, and troll your friends but also save lives. How I got the idea for this wifi beaconing use case you might ask? Well, being stuck in an elevator for 2.5 hours, in an unfamiliar building, without anyone hearing me banging the doors. I had no access to the internet and no GSM to call for help. It got me thinking about these alternative ways of sending a message out. Making a bunch of new SSIDs like "THERE IS A PERSON STUCK IN THE ELEVATOR! SEND HELP!!", would probably do the trick! I'm hoping to remember this next time if I ever get stuck in an elevator for a long time, or I get caught under some ruin due to an earthquake. Things can be unpredictable sometimes and one can never be careful enough. SOS Wifi Beacons You can do this in any Linux distro, also Termux on your phone, a Raspberry Pi, or a simple ES8622 chip. Install these two tools: apt-get install airmon mdk3 Wireless chips have 3 modes: (regular wifi client), (acting as AP), or ( ). client mode interface mode monitor mode monitoring traffic Put your device in monitor mode: airmon-ng start INTERFACE is your wifi adapter usually or if you have an external dongle or second wifi card. INTERFACE wlan0 wlan1 Create a text file with the name (or whatever you like) with a list of SSID names you want to see, each separated by a new line. ssid_names.txt nano ssid_names.txt Type your message in form of SSIDs, or even encrypt it if it's not meant for everyone to see in the plain text! In this case, I chose to raise some neighboring eyebrows with some classic rickroll trick. If you prepare your list ahead of time you can pull this off in 2 commands. To begin transmitting the beacon frames, we’ll use the mdk3 tool with the b (beacon flooding mode), -a (advertise a WPA2 network), -g (advertise a 54Mbps network) and -f (use the provided dictionary file): mdk3 MONITOR_INTERFACE b -a -g -f ssid_names.txt is your wifi adapter with suffix for monitor mode, eg: MONITOR_INTERFACE mon mdk3 wlan0mon b -a -g -f ssid_names.txt It's worth noting that you can't target specific wireless devices, but you have the ability to specify the channel number. mdk3 wlan0mon b -a -g -f ssid_names.txt -c CHANNEL The challenge is can you think of some more cool use cases for wifi beaconing? Thank you for your time and go do stuff now!

WiFi Beaconing: A Way to Save Lives via Beacon Flooding

Bluetooth is one of the most common technologies used for creating an indoor positioning system (IPS). It can work well for both proximity solutions and high-accuracy object detection and tracking. Here, we’ll tell you about Bluetooth positioning methods, the alternatives of the technology, and the challenges you can meet when implementing a Bluetooth-based IPS. Indoor Positioning with Bluetooth An IPS is a network of nodes used for positioning and tracking objects in buildings and underground. The nodes can either send signals (transmitting devices) or receive them (receiving devices). Some devices can combine both functions. Bluetooth indoor positioning uses beacons or tags to track stationary and moving objects respectively. Bluetooth beacons send out data packets with unique identifiers by which a receiver can recognize and differentiate them. Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) beacons are small-sized devices with extremely low power consumption and extended battery life. To communicate with receiving devices, beacons need a protocol that can be ready-made, for example, , , and , and customized. A mobile app or SDK integrated into a receiving device, such as a smartphone, receives beacon signals and converts them into the object’s position data. iBeacon AltBeacon Eddystone The accuracy of the position data depends on the method used by the technology. Bluetooth positioning methods include: Received signal strength indication (RSSI) RSSI measures the intensity of the signals emitted by the transmitters. This method is mostly used for proximity solutions for which meter-level accuracy is well enough. Angle of arrival (AoA)/Angle of departure (AoD) AoA and AoD measure the angles at which the transmitted signals reach the receiving devices. The AoA and AoD methods can provide centimeter-level positioning accuracy. Trilateration and triangulation These methods apply in a network of three or more transmitting devices. Trilateration and triangulation involve mathematical models and often support other methods to increase positioning accuracy. Bluetooth indoor positioning systems find wide applications in various industries. BLE-based solutions can comprise: people and asset tracking; wayfinding; point of interest (POI) information; item finding. Bluetooth application fields embrace logistics, healthcare, entertainment, travel industry, education, manufacturing, and many other areas. Bluetooth IPS solutions can monitor goods handling, secure assets, track and safeguard employees, share information,  find lost items, and navigate visitors in public places. Alternative Technologies Used for Indoor Positioning Indoor positioning systems can employ a variety of technologies that differ in their implementation features and cost, positioning methods and accuracy, and other aspects. IPS technologies can comprise: Radio signal-based IPS Such technologies use radio propagation and include NFC, RFID, Wi-Fi (WPS), Bluetooth, Thread, ZigBee, ultra-wideband (UWB), Radio Detection and Ranging (RADAR). Sound signal-based IPS These systems rely on echolocation and the use of ultrasonic signals, the example is Sound Navigation and Ranging (SONAR) system. Light signal-based IPS These IPS technologies use light propagation and involve Light Detection and Ranging (LiDAR), infrared systems, and computer vision systems. Inertial navigation-based IPS These systems, such as inertial measurement units (IMUs), use sensor data to track objects in three-dimensional space. All IPS technologies have strong and weak points. For example, ultrasound systems can detect objects accurately, but their reliability directly depends on the environment. The surrounding objects can negatively affect the ultrasonic waves. Light signals used by infrared systems also have limited capabilities. Radio signal-based solutions, such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, and RFID, are more common IPS technologies. For example, RFID is a cost-effective and easy-to-implement solution intended for short-range applications. Wi-Fi is a widespread technology used to create highly scalable networks of devices. Bluetooth is a very popular choice for indoor positioning systems because of the following advantages: (you can find it in almost all modern chips and smart devices) wide availability ; (BLE provides very low power consumption) high energy efficiency ; (RSSI, AoA/AoD, trilateration, and triangulation) variety of positioning methods ; (the technology is easy to work with) simple implementation . Challenges of Implementing Bluetooth Indoor Positioning Technology Depending on the Bluetooth version, you can implement different positioning methods. Thus, if your , you can only use RSSI. If your system supports the , you can use the AoA and AoD methods that relate to the direction-finding techniques. Bluetooth version is less than 5.1 latest Bluetooth Specification version You can always achieve better accuracy by using additional positioning methods. For example, trilateration supports RSSI, and triangulation is often used together with AoA and AoD for more accurate object detection. You can also improve the positioning accuracy by increasing the number of beacons installed in the facility. In addition, high beacon density can help you maintain signal integrity in noisy environments. Before deploying an IPS, it’s important to create a detailed map of the room or building where you’re planning to use it and choose suitable software for this purpose. If you’re interested in indoor positioning systems and BLE-based solutions, you can find a lot more in the . 2021 guide to Bluetooth indoor positioning Previously published at https://www.integrasources.com/blog/bluetooth-indoor-positioning-systems/

Leveraging Bluetooth Indoor Positioning Technology

Beacon, a leading web3 accelerator founded by Polygon co-founder Sandeep Nailwal, has unveiled its fourth and largest cohort to date. The program has selected 17 promising startups for its latest three-month accelerator, marking a significant expansion from previous cohorts. The new group includes some of the most high-profile companies in Beacon's history, with several already backed by prominent venture capital firms such as Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), Founders Fund, Pantera Capital, and Polychain Capital. The startups span various sectors within the web3 space, including decentralized finance (DeFi), infrastructure, and artificial intelligence (AI). “We're thrilled to welcome our largest and most diverse cohort so far,” said Sandeep Nailwal, co-founder of Polygon and Beacon. “The caliber of companies joining us is truly exceptional, and we're excited to see how, with the aid of our mentorship and resources, they will shape the future of web3 and beyond.” Notable Participants and Their Innovations Among the standout companies in the cohort are: Stakestone: An omni-chain liquid staking token protocol enhancing staking yields and liquidity on Layer 2s.


EXO: Enables users to run their own AI clusters at home using everyday devices.


Nubit: A scalable, cost-efficient data availability layer secured by Bitcoin, empowering applications like Ordinals and Layer 2s.


Aligned Layer: A decentralized network that verifies zero-knowledge proofs and posts the results to Ethereum.


eoracle: A programmable data layer that connects smart contracts with real-world data by extending Ethereum's Proof of Stake. Building on Past Successes The announcement comes after the graduation of Beacon's successful S23 cohort, which comprised 10 companies. Alumni such as scalable data availability layer 0G and verifiable oracle protocol ORA have achieved unicorn status since completing the program. ORA secured $20 million in funding led by Polychain Capital, while Inco, a universal confidentiality layer, closed a $4.5 million seed round led by 1kx. “With the level of talent and innovation we're witnessing in this new group, we are entirely confident that they can emulate, if not surpass, their predecessors,” Nailwal added. The Full Cohort Lineup The complete list of companies in Beacon's S24 cohort includes: Avantis: Provides infrastructure for traders to access up to 100x leverage on major cryptocurrencies, forex, and commodities.


Compute Labs: Utilizes a Compute Tokenization Protocol to financialize AI and create compute derivatives.


Crynux: Founded by former Google engineers, building a permissionless and trustless protocol for decentralized AI.


EZKL: Offers a developer-friendly system for verifiable AI and analytics, powering various decentralized systems.


Lorenzo: A Bitcoin liquidity finance layer designed to meet global demand for Bitcoin liquidity across Layer 2s and DeFi platforms.


Nodekit: Developing Javelin, a solution aimed at restoring composability to rollups.


Othentic: Provides infrastructure for building distributed services, simplifying development on EigenLayer.


PADO: A decentralized zkAttestation and computation network aiming to unlock internet data for Web3.


Pallet: A hub for digital culture, community, and ownership built on the Sei network.


Pin AI: An open platform for personal AI, leveraging open-source technology and crypto for data ownership and privacy.


TAC: TON App Chain, an interoperability layer for the TON blockchain and EVM-based applications.


Warlock: Creating new primitives to disrupt and disintermediate the MEV (Miner Extractable Value) landscape. Beacon's decision to expand its cohort size may be a strategic move to capitalize on the growing momentum in the web3 sector. By supporting a larger and more diverse group of startups, the accelerator is positioning itself as a key player in shaping the future of decentralized technologies. The inclusion of companies backed by major venture capital firms also adds credibility to the program and could attract more high-quality applicants in the future. This move could foster a more collaborative environment where startups benefit not only from Beacon's resources but also from each other's experiences and networks. Don’t forget to like and share the story! Vested Interest Disclosure: This author is an independent contributor publishing via our business blogging program. HackerNoon has reviewed the report for quality, but the claims herein belong to the author. #DYOR Beacon , a leading web3 accelerator founded by Polygon co-founder Sandeep Nailwal, has unveiled its fourth and largest cohort to date. The program has selected 17 promising startups for its latest three-month accelerator, marking a significant expansion from previous cohorts. Beacon The new group includes some of the most high-profile companies in Beacon's history, with several already backed by prominent venture capital firms such as Andreessen Horowitz (a16z), Founders Fund, Pantera Capital, and Polychain Capital. The startups span various sectors within the web3 space, including decentralized finance (DeFi), infrastructure, and artificial intelligence (AI). “We're thrilled to welcome our largest and most diverse cohort so far,” said Sandeep Nailwal, co-founder of Polygon and Beacon. “The caliber of companies joining us is truly exceptional, and we're excited to see how, with the aid of our mentorship and resources, they will shape the future of web3 and beyond.” Notable Participants and Their Innovations Notable Participants and Their Innovations Among the standout companies in the cohort are: Stakestone: An omni-chain liquid staking token protocol enhancing staking yields and liquidity on Layer 2s. EXO: Enables users to run their own AI clusters at home using everyday devices. Nubit: A scalable, cost-efficient data availability layer secured by Bitcoin, empowering applications like Ordinals and Layer 2s. Aligned Layer: A decentralized network that verifies zero-knowledge proofs and posts the results to Ethereum. eoracle: A programmable data layer that connects smart contracts with real-world data by extending Ethereum's Proof of Stake. Stakestone: An omni-chain liquid staking token protocol enhancing staking yields and liquidity on Layer 2s. Stakestone : An omni-chain liquid staking token protocol enhancing staking yields and liquidity on Layer 2s. Stakestone EXO: Enables users to run their own AI clusters at home using everyday devices. EXO : Enables users to run their own AI clusters at home using everyday devices. EXO Nubit: A scalable, cost-efficient data availability layer secured by Bitcoin, empowering applications like Ordinals and Layer 2s. Nubit : A scalable, cost-efficient data availability layer secured by Bitcoin, empowering applications like Ordinals and Layer 2s. Nubit Aligned Layer: A decentralized network that verifies zero-knowledge proofs and posts the results to Ethereum. Aligned Layer : A decentralized network that verifies zero-knowledge proofs and posts the results to Ethereum. Aligned Layer eoracle: A programmable data layer that connects smart contracts with real-world data by extending Ethereum's Proof of Stake. eoracle : A programmable data layer that connects smart contracts with real-world data by extending Ethereum's Proof of Stake. eoracle Building on Past Successes Building on Past Successes The announcement comes after the graduation of Beacon's successful S23 cohort, which comprised 10 companies. Alumni such as scalable data availability layer 0G and verifiable oracle protocol ORA have achieved unicorn status since completing the program. ORA secured $20 million in funding led by Polychain Capital, while Inco, a universal confidentiality layer, closed a $4.5 million seed round led by 1kx. “With the level of talent and innovation we're witnessing in this new group, we are entirely confident that they can emulate, if not surpass, their predecessors,” Nailwal added. The Full Cohort Lineup The Full Cohort Lineup The complete list of companies in Beacon's S24 cohort includes: Avantis: Provides infrastructure for traders to access up to 100x leverage on major cryptocurrencies, forex, and commodities. Compute Labs: Utilizes a Compute Tokenization Protocol to financialize AI and create compute derivatives. Crynux: Founded by former Google engineers, building a permissionless and trustless protocol for decentralized AI. EZKL: Offers a developer-friendly system for verifiable AI and analytics, powering various decentralized systems. Lorenzo: A Bitcoin liquidity finance layer designed to meet global demand for Bitcoin liquidity across Layer 2s and DeFi platforms. Nodekit: Developing Javelin, a solution aimed at restoring composability to rollups. Othentic: Provides infrastructure for building distributed services, simplifying development on EigenLayer. PADO: A decentralized zkAttestation and computation network aiming to unlock internet data for Web3. Pallet: A hub for digital culture, community, and ownership built on the Sei network. Pin AI: An open platform for personal AI, leveraging open-source technology and crypto for data ownership and privacy. TAC: TON App Chain, an interoperability layer for the TON blockchain and EVM-based applications. Warlock: Creating new primitives to disrupt and disintermediate the MEV (Miner Extractable Value) landscape. Avantis: Provides infrastructure for traders to access up to 100x leverage on major cryptocurrencies, forex, and commodities. Avantis : Provides infrastructure for traders to access up to 100x leverage on major cryptocurrencies, forex, and commodities. Avantis Compute Labs: Utilizes a Compute Tokenization Protocol to financialize AI and create compute derivatives. Compute Labs : Utilizes a Compute Tokenization Protocol to financialize AI and create compute derivatives. Compute Labs Crynux: Founded by former Google engineers, building a permissionless and trustless protocol for decentralized AI. Crynux : Founded by former Google engineers, building a permissionless and trustless protocol for decentralized AI. Crynux EZKL: Offers a developer-friendly system for verifiable AI and analytics, powering various decentralized systems. EZKL : Offers a developer-friendly system for verifiable AI and analytics, powering various decentralized systems. EZKL Lorenzo: A Bitcoin liquidity finance layer designed to meet global demand for Bitcoin liquidity across Layer 2s and DeFi platforms. Lorenzo : A Bitcoin liquidity finance layer designed to meet global demand for Bitcoin liquidity across Layer 2s and DeFi platforms. Lorenzo Nodekit: Developing Javelin, a solution aimed at restoring composability to rollups. Nodekit : Developing Javelin, a solution aimed at restoring composability to rollups. Nodekit Othentic: Provides infrastructure for building distributed services, simplifying development on EigenLayer. Othentic : Provides infrastructure for building distributed services, simplifying development on EigenLayer. Othentic PADO: A decentralized zkAttestation and computation network aiming to unlock internet data for Web3. PADO : A decentralized zkAttestation and computation network aiming to unlock internet data for Web3. PADO Pallet: A hub for digital culture, community, and ownership built on the Sei network. Pallet : A hub for digital culture, community, and ownership built on the Sei network. Pallet Pin AI: An open platform for personal AI, leveraging open-source technology and crypto for data ownership and privacy. Pin AI : An open platform for personal AI, leveraging open-source technology and crypto for data ownership and privacy. Pin AI TAC: TON App Chain, an interoperability layer for the TON blockchain and EVM-based applications. TAC : TON App Chain, an interoperability layer for the TON blockchain and EVM-based applications. TAC Warlock: Creating new primitives to disrupt and disintermediate the MEV (Miner Extractable Value) landscape. Warlock : Creating new primitives to disrupt and disintermediate the MEV (Miner Extractable Value) landscape. Warlock Beacon's decision to expand its cohort size may be a strategic move to capitalize on the growing momentum in the web3 sector. By supporting a larger and more diverse group of startups, the accelerator is positioning itself as a key player in shaping the future of decentralized technologies. The inclusion of companies backed by major venture capital firms also adds credibility to the program and could attract more high-quality applicants in the future. This move could foster a more collaborative environment where startups benefit not only from Beacon's resources but also from each other's experiences and networks. Don’t forget to like and share the story! Vested Interest Disclosure: This author is an independent contributor publishing via our business blogging program. HackerNoon has reviewed the report for quality, but the claims herein belong to the author. #DYOR Vested Interest Disclosure: This author is an independent contributor publishing via our business blogging program . HackerNoon has reviewed the report for quality, but the claims herein belong to the author. #DYOR Vested Interest Disclosure: business blogging program business blogging program

Beacon's Largest Cohort Signals Growing Momentum in Web3 Innovation

Η μεγαλύτερη κοόρτη της Beacon σηματοδοτεί αυξανόμενη ορμή στην καινοτομία Web3

La cohorte más grande de Beacon indica un impulso creciente en la innovación de la Web3

Kelompok Terbesar Beacon Menandakan Meningkatnya Momentum Inovasi Web3

ビーコンの最大規模のコホートがWeb3イノベーションの勢いの高まりを示唆

សញ្ញានៃក្រុមដ៏ធំបំផុតរបស់ Beacon ដែលកំពុងកើនឡើងនៅក្នុងការច្នៃប្រឌិត Web3

बीकनको सबैभन्दा ठूलो कोहोर्ट संकेतहरू Web3 नवाचारमा बढ्दो गति

Cea mai mare cohortă a lui Beacon semnalează creșterea impulsului în inovarea Web3

Крупнейшая когорта Beacon сигнализирует о растущем импульсе инноваций Web3

Беацон-ова највећа кохорта сигнали растући замах у Веб3 иновацијама

Web3 இன்னோவேஷனில் பெக்கனின் மிகப்பெரிய கோஹார்ட் சிக்னல்கள் வளரும் வேகம்

“Beacon” -yň “Web3” innowasiýasynda ösýän pursatdygyny görkezýär

Mayoqning eng katta kohort signallari Web3 innovatsiyasida o'sib borayotgan momentum

Biometrics: A Beacon of Trust in the Digital Media Landscape

**VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 24th, 2024/Chainwire/--**FOMO BULL CLUB, a decentralized, community-driven platform, is thrilled to announce the launch of its inaugural meme coin launchpad on the Base blockchain. This pioneering platform empowers the community to play a pivotal role in meme coin creation, launch, and protection from scams and rug pulls. With the meme coin market experiencing unprecedented growth, rising scams, and rug pulls, FOMO BULL CLUB recognized the urgent need for a reliable launchpad that prioritizes community safety while fostering meme coin innovation. The launchpad is meticulously designed to encourage creativity, enable democratic decision-making, and safeguard against fraudulent activities. In its first phase, the launchpad introduces eight exciting meme coins, each with unique characteristics and potential to disrupt the meme coin landscape. However, the real power lies with its launchpad members, who can vote on which meme coins will be launched, ensuring that community preferences dictate the selection process. FOMO BULL CLUB's commitment to community protection is not just a statement; it's evident in every aspect of the launchpad. Smart contracts undergo auditing, and ownership is renounced to eliminate the risk of rug pulls. Additionally, the decentralized nature of the launchpad minimizes the influence of gatekeepers, ensuring fair and transparent meme coin launches. "We are excited to introduce the FOMO BULL CLUB meme coin launchpad and empower our community to shape the future of meme coins," said Jordan Charters, Head of Business Development of FOMO BULL CLUB. "With our decentralized approach and focus on community protection, we aim to revolutionize the meme coin space and foster innovation and creativity." Visit https://fomobull.club to learn more. Contact FOMO BULL CLUB fomobullclub@gmail.com This story was distributed as a release by Chainwire under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here. **VICTORIA, Seychelles, April 24th, 2024/Chainwire/--**FOMO BULL CLUB, a decentralized, community-driven platform, is thrilled to announce the launch of its inaugural meme coin launchpad on the Base blockchain. This pioneering platform empowers the community to play a pivotal role in meme coin creation, launch, and protection from scams and rug pulls. With the meme coin market experiencing unprecedented growth, rising scams, and rug pulls, FOMO BULL CLUB recognized the urgent need for a reliable launchpad that prioritizes community safety while fostering meme coin innovation. The launchpad is meticulously designed to encourage creativity, enable democratic decision-making, and safeguard against fraudulent activities. In its first phase, the launchpad introduces eight exciting meme coins, each with unique characteristics and potential to disrupt the meme coin landscape. However, the real power lies with its launchpad members, who can vote on which meme coins will be launched, ensuring that community preferences dictate the selection process. FOMO BULL CLUB's commitment to community protection is not just a statement; it's evident in every aspect of the launchpad. Smart contracts undergo auditing, and ownership is renounced to eliminate the risk of rug pulls. Additionally, the decentralized nature of the launchpad minimizes the influence of gatekeepers, ensuring fair and transparent meme coin launches. "We are excited to introduce the FOMO BULL CLUB meme coin launchpad and empower our community to shape the future of meme coins," said Jordan Charters, Head of Business Development of FOMO BULL CLUB. "We are excited to introduce the FOMO BULL CLUB meme coin launchpad and empower our community to shape the future of meme coins," said Jordan Charters, Head of Business Development of FOMO BULL CLUB. "With our decentralized approach and focus on community protection, we aim to revolutionize the meme coin space and foster innovation and creativity." "With our decentralized approach and focus on community protection, we aim to revolutionize the meme coin space and foster innovation and creativity." Visit https://fomobull.club to learn more. https://fomobull.club https://fomobull.club Contact FOMO BULL CLUB fomobullclub@gmail.com This story was distributed as a release by Chainwire under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here. This story was distributed as a release by Chainwire under HackerNoon’s Business Blogging Program. Learn more about the program here. here. here.

Base Chain Welcomes Inaugural Meme Coin Launchpad: A Beacon Against Scams And Rug Pulls

NEAR its transformation into the Blockchain Operating System (BOS), a decentralized UI and frontend for crypto applications. It will give users a seamless experience exploring all the capabilities of web3 while giving developers an easy way to create new through Lego-like interfaces. announced dApps Instead of competing with other blockchains, Protocol is building a decentralized internet by leveraging the strengths of its native blockchain. These include low transaction fees, sharding, high throughput, and robust security. NEAR The BOS will support any blockchain network and Web2 backend, allowing users to switch between blockchains and applications in a breeze via a single-step onboarding process. This will improve user efficiency and convenience while eliminating pain points such as the need to create separate accounts for each activity. For instance, users will be able to make payments with the same wallet over different blockchains, use decentralized applications, and access any public or private network without leaving the platform. It’s like being able to use a universal remote to control all your media devices – instead of having to switch between a bunch of different remotes, you now have a single, simple-to-use remote that can control them all. The BOS will allow developers to use smart contracts and blockchain as a decentralized backend and frontend. It will also make their apps highly accessible and secure with high reliability due to its trustless nature. This is similar to the way that the industrial revolution unlocked the potential for productivity and growth. Through mass production and automation, it provided an efficient and quick way to make products. By dispensing with centralized infrastructure, the BOS is revolutionizing crypto application development, maintenance, and scaling. Here's how technology evolved to reach this point The Blockchain Operating System is based on the technology of rendering a frontend directly from smart contracts. Combining smart contract code with the frontend and blending the frontend and backend logic into one application was how the guys took this technology to the next level. Up to this point, NEAR Social, a social data protocol built on top of NEAR Protocol, has been the most prominent application of the technology. One of the biggest breakthroughs is that it’s now possible to run Ethereum Smart Contracts on the Blockchain Operating System. For example, you can take the source code of Lido and launch it with frontend and backend on Near Protocol. It's as simple as taking the source code, creating a component, forking it, and you're done. On top of the system, developers can build decentralized and composable frontends. In this way, they can add built-in features to different components and pieces with no separate hosting needed. As an example, they can develop components for , or for SocialFi, or they can combine both. DeFi In other words, developers have the ability to create custom dApps with a wide range of functionalities and complex chain interactions between dApps or smart contracts, all while streamlining the development process. The next step will be the development of plug-ins for existing browsers and perhaps even standalone browsers, à la Brave. Decentralized domain services like the Ethereum Name Service (ENS) and will be used instead of traditional domain name system (DNS) providers. The result will be a permissionless, decentralized internet. Unstoppable Domains The first entry point to blockchain-based decentralized internet The BOS is similar to Android and iOS in the sense that when they first came out, there were few apps available, but they had SDKs, app-writing guides, and a lot of room for new apps, so mobile development flourished, opening up an enormous market for mobile apps and games. Over time, this created a vast library of available apps, with unique features and capabilities, revolutionizing the ways we use our devices today. They were initially limited in functionality, but no one doubted they would become the future. In a similar vein, the BOS is on a trajectory to become a major platform for developers, creating a burgeoning marketplace and unlocking even more growth potential. The success of this system depends on how it is embraced by developers and the community that will sustain and grow it. What's more important is how users will adopt it. There is perhaps no greater concern as to why users might want to switch from web2 to web3. Utility-wise, web3 doesn't differ much from web2. There are basically the same products, but only the form is different. At the time when Android and iOS were nascent, they provided an entirely unique experience in terms of mobile access and internet use. For users, the Blockchain Operating System may not be as exciting as it is for developers. In other words, it is about end users embracing the crypto's ethos – whether the ability to own and control their data in the decentralized internet is worthwhile enough for them to give up some comfort until web3 matures. This is similar to switching from a horse and buggy to a car – the newfound sense of speed and possibilities is exciting, but it also requires a learning curve to utilize its full potential.

NEAR's Blockchain Operating System: A Beacon of Hope for a Democratic Digital Future?

From earliest times the beacon-fire has sent forth messages

"Unleash your inner artist and let the Universe be your GPS to creativity - it's the ultimate destination for transcendence." - Priya Kumari Congratulations Captain Priya! 🎉 🎉🎉 She has won the following award/awards: Here are the links to the Noonies 2022 glories that she bagged: https://www.noonies.tech/2022/programming/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-kubernetes https://www.noonies.tech/2022/emerging-tech/2022-cheeky-genius-of-the-year https://www.noonies.tech/2022/programming/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-devops https://www.noonies.tech/2022/emerging-tech/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-retail?ref=hackernoon #Noonies2022 Winner For Kubernetes, DevOps, Cheeky Genius of the Year, Retail: Priya Kumari’s Story (Self-Narrated) Prelude On 2nd December 2022, I woke up to some amazing news, I had won first place in Hackernoon’s prodigious Noonies 2022 awards in 4 categories (Kubernetes, DevOps, Cheeky Genius of the Year, and Retail) and was declared the runner-up in 3 other categories ( ). The feeling was amazing, and it took some time to sink in. I was exhilarated and enthralled with happiness. I am grateful because these recognitions from a community I love so much are precious beyond words. Cloud Computing, Microservices, and Amazon This story doesn't start here, though. It dates back to some point in time in 2021 when audaciously I had submitted my first article on the platform with little hope that it could even get published. But it did, and I got something very precious that day, the indomitable spirit and hope of a child. Hope, in my opinion, is a saturated concept that keeps on eloping as we age and gain experience, and for me, restoration of my hope was a superpower. With the first article, 'Live' on the platform, I got the audacity to tap into my power and eventually wrote more articles. Surprisingly, towards the last quarter of 2022, I was nominated for the following 13 Noonies categories: 1. HackerNoon Contributor of the Year- AMAZON - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/emerging-tech/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-amazon 2. HackerNoon Contributor of the Year- CICD - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/programming/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-cicd 3. HackerNoon Contributor of the Year- CLOUD-COMPUTING - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/programming/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-cloud-computing 4. HackerNoon Contributor of the Year- CODING-SKILLS- https://www.noonies.tech/2022/programming/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-coding-skills 5. HackerNoon Contributor of the Year- DEVOPS - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/programming/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-devops 6. HackerNoon Contributor of the Year- KUBERNETES - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/programming/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-kubernetes 7.  HackerNoon Contributor of the Year- MICROSERVICES - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/programming/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-microservices 8. HackerNoon Contributor of the Year- AWS - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/programming/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-aws 9. Cheeky Genius of the Year - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/emerging-tech/2022-cheeky-genius-of-the-year 10. Hackernoon Contributor of the Year - Regulation - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/emerging-tech/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-regulation?ref=hackernoon 11. Hackernoon Contributor of the Year - Data Science - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/programming/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-data-science?ref=hackernoon 12. Hackernoon Contributor of the Year - Retail - https://www.noonies.tech/2022/emerging-tech/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-retail?ref=hackernoon 13. Hackernoon Contributor of the Year - Business - ** https://www.noonies.tech/2022/emerging-tech/2022-hackernoon-contributor-of-the-year-business?ref=hackernoon I didn't see it coming, but I was thrilled, so much so that I didn't want anything at the time when I came to know about my first nomination. Not because it was a transactional triumph but because it was my stepping stone to tapping into my ultimate power - hope and that I could do wonderous things as a writer - an artistic revelation and transcendence. This is a story of how I tapped into my creativity and found fulfillment by assimilating spiritual ascendance to my creativity and pretty much every realm of life, and it could be your inspiration too. Discover how connecting with the Universe through spiritual ascendance can serve as an artist's homing beacon to creativity and fulfillment in this inspiring tale of reclaiming one's superpower and achieving dreams amidst daily life chaos and struggles. Join me on a roller coaster ride of lessons learned and hope as we explore the ultimate transcendence in art and life. Stay tuned. A Tapestry of Altruism & Gratitude: The Power of Community and the Universe in My Artistic Journey Welcome to my triumphant journey of self-discovery and manifesting the power of art. I am extremely grateful to the best tech community, Hackernoon, for believing in me, for everything, and for giving me a platform to share my story. I am also grateful to everyone with whom I share my success story within and outside the Hackernoon community. People who nominated me, those who believed I could write, my family and friends for their unconditional love, support, and faith in me, those who voted for me, those who gave me their goodwill, and those who were always there. I am always grateful to the Universe as well for making my artistic journey so beautiful. I owe my success to all the lovely people and communities in my life and the Universe. Trust me; I have done nothing. My success is because of the people around me, higher dimension and inter-dimensional forces, the Almighty, and a wonderful and awesome community. I just have lots of hope, curiosity, and good intentions. The Plot Twist: Discovering the True Purpose of Art Along My Journey of Self-Discovery and Manifesting  Unconventional Triumph As the famous George Bernard Shaw quote goes, 'The reasonable man tries to adjust to the world. The unreasonable man tries to make the world adapt to him. Therefore, all the progress in the world happens to the unreasonable man.' This quote perfectly encapsulates the plot twist in my story - the realization that art is done for its own sake and the pursuit of financial gain is just a byproduct of translating one's emotional energy into a tangible form. This year, I embarked on a journey of inquisition, expression, and expansion, and through the power of art, I was able to achieve the impossible. I invested in myself and became more self-aware through spirituality and meditation, taking one moment at a time, and that's how I turned my passion into a profession and achieved success and how you, too, can do the same. As an artist, it is important to tap into your spirituality and connect with a higher power, as it can be a powerful source of inspiration and guidance. This can help you to tap into a deeper sense of purpose, inner wisdom, and guidance. This connection can act as a homing beacon, propelling you to soar above the chaos of the world and connect with the Universe to manifest ultimate creative transcendence and overcome obstacles that may block your path, helping you to weather the storms of life with a sense of inner calm and peace. The Imploding Power of the Mind, Body, and Soul: Realizing the Magnanimous Potential of Self Awareness Through the Magic of Morning Pages, Artist Dates, and Nature Walks Morning pages are an essential tool for self-reflection and self-discovery. They allow you to reflect on your innermost thoughts and feelings and gain a deeper understanding of yourself. Artist dates are an opportunity to step away from the daily routine and explore new things that inspire you. Nature walks can help you to connect with the natural world and find a sense of balance and harmony in your life. The Creative Quest: A Poetic Exclamation of My Artistic Revelations Indeed, taking the time to reflect on your inner self, explore your spirituality, and engage in activities that inspire you, can help you to reclaim your creativity and live a more fulfilling, authentic life. It is important to find the strength to overcome fear, self-doubt, and other blocks that may prevent you from fully expressing yourself as an artist. My creative spirit is largely rooted in my faith and conscious surrender to the Universe for manifesting acme of spiritual transcendence, and I would like to express it poetically as follows: The Artist's Way: A Poetic Manifestation  to Inner Wisdom and Fulfillment The Artist's Way is like a treasure map, Leading you to the gold of your creativity. A spiritual compass to navigate, Through the chaos of life's uncertainty. Morning pages are like a mirror, Reflecting on your innermost thoughts, Artist dates are like a playground, Where you let your imagination run wild and be caught. Nature walks are like a symphony, For your senses to come alive, Connecting with a higher power, It is like a shining beacon to light your path & soar high. Obstacles that block your path, Are like a storm to weather, But with The Artist's Way as your guide, You'll find the strength to go further. Unlock the doors to your soul, let creativity flow like a river, Find inspiration in the smallest things, and let your spirit soar and quiver. Morning pages, artist dates, nature walks, tools to guide your way, Reclaim your power, overcome fear, and live authentically every day. Conclusion In conclusion, this story is a testament to the imploding hope and the potential we all possess to tap into our own unique superpower. Through my journey of connecting with the Universe and using spiritual ascendance as my homing beacon to creativity, I was able to reclaim my own creativity and find fulfillment. I hope this story serves as inspiration for readers to explore their own paths to transcendence and to never give up on their dreams. I am eternally grateful for the recognition from the Hackernoon community and for the opportunity to share my story. Thank you for joining me on this journey. As Hackernoon Community says, “Lie well and prosper;” I wish to raise a toast to new glorious beginnings for all of us, and I look forward to reading more such human stories on this platform. Sending all the readers love and light always; feel free to leave a comment if you liked this post. Also, kindly stop by to read the below interview Q&A. What does it mean for you to win this title? I hope this question is answered by my write-up above. I would just expand a bit on that. Winning these titles is like a cherry on top of a sundae, it's the icing on the cake, the cherry blossoms on a cherry tree, it's like a dream come true. It's a validation that my hard work and dedication has paid off, it's like a shining star in the night sky, it's a bright light in the dark tunnel. It's an honor to be recognized by the community I love so much, it's like a warm hug on a cold day, a ray of sunshine on a rainy day. It's a reminder to keep striving for excellence and to never stop pursuing my passions, it's like a compass guiding me on my journey, it's a beacon of hope for what's to come. How do you or your company intend to embrace the responsibility of this title in 2023? Embracing the responsibility of these titles for me is akin to holding a hot potato, it's a delicate balance of not dropping the ball, yet keeping it rolling. I plan to wear it like a badge of honor, a shiny medal on my chest, and use it as a driving force to continue pushing boundaries and taking risks, like a fearless tightrope walker. I'll use it as an opportunity to give back to the community, like planting a seed and watching it grow into a beautiful flower. I'll hold myself accountable to set an example, like a lighthouse guiding ships through the stormy seas, and strive to continue to inspire others to do the same. It's a weighty responsibility, but I'm excited to take it on and see where it leads me in 2023. What goals are you looking forward to accomplishing in 2023 (whether it be through company initiatives or your personal journey)? In 2023, I'm looking forward to achieving new goals and expanding my knowledge and skills. I am excited to take on new challenges and opportunities and also want to give back to the community. I hope to continue to inspire others and make the most of this new year. I want to keep climbing new heights and reach new milestones like a mountain climber conquering a peak. I also want to continue to expand my knowledge and skills, like a sponge absorbing water, a butterfly emerging from a cocoon. Which trend(s) are you most excited about in 2023? Share your reason. According to me the top 10 technology trends for 2023 are as under: Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) Internet of Things (IoT) 5G Edge Computing Quantum Computing Cybersecurity ESG, CSR, Green & Sustainable Financing Digital Twin Blockchain Extended Reality (XR) Each trend has its own unique set of benefits and potential for innovation. For example, the integration of AI and ML will bring about new opportunities for automation and personalization, while 5G will pave the way for faster and more reliable connectivity. And, the use of Blockchain will bring new level of trust and transparency to the digital world. It's like a box of chocolates, you never know what you're gonna get, but one thing is for sure, it's going to be sweet and exciting. 2022 had been crazy, especially in Tech - what with layoff, web3 fraud, and AI! Which trend are you most concerned about? What solutions can you think of? Be as brief or as detailed as you like. One trend that I am most concerned about is the increasing use of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the potential for unintended consequences. While AI has the potential to bring about significant benefits in areas such as automation and decision-making, it also raises ethical concerns around issues such as privacy, bias, and job displacement. To address these concerns, some potential solutions include: Developing and implementing ethical guidelines for AI development and use. Investing in research and development to improve AI's ability to explain its decisions and detect and mitigate bias. Providing retraining and support for workers whose jobs may be affected by AI. Establishing regulatory frameworks to oversee the development and use of AI. Additionally, it's important for organizations to be transparent and open about their use of AI and its capabilities, so that customers and stakeholders can make informed decisions. Collaboration between industry, government, and academia is also important to address these concerns and find common solutions. Share your biggest success so far and/or your biggest failure so far. We would love your feedback on HackerNoon as a tech publication! How has your experience been with us? One of my biggest professional successes in 2022 was the publication of ebooks, many series of articles, and other forms of pieces of content. The positive feedback from readers and peers was encouraging. My biggest failures often come as self-sabotaging thoughts, writer's blocks, strange numbness, and feelings of inadequacy. However, I am able to overcome them soon with guidance from the Universe and spirituality as a way to connect with something greater than myself and find inspiration. This can take many forms, such as meditation, prayer, or nature walks. By connecting with the Universe and tapping into a sense of transcendence, the writer in me finds that her creativity is reignited, and she is able to produce her best work. Any words of wisdom you’d like to share with us? "Creativity is like a butterfly, it needs space and time to spread its wings, and the universe is like a garden. It provides the perfect environment for it to flourish. Connect with the universe, and you'll find the ultimate transcendence in your art." This quote is meant to inspire readers to explore the connection between their creativity and spirituality. It suggests that creativity, like a butterfly, needs the right environment to flourish and that connecting with the universe can provide that environment. By imploding into a sense of transcendence, writers may find that their creativity is reignited and they are able to produce their best work. It's important to remind readers that creativity is not just about producing something new but also about finding new ways of looking at things and that spirituality and creativity can coexist synergistically. The 2022 Noonies are sponsored by: , and .Tech Domains by Radix . BingX You will be receiving a .Tech Domain for life as well as an official HackerNoon NFT!

An Artist’s Homing Beacon to Creativity: Connecting with the Universe is The Ultimate Transcendence

Ethereum staking is picking up steam like never before and we see not only individuals, but large enterprises jumping on the bandwagon. To date, there is over $24 billion worth of ETH already staked, with over 54,000 validators patiently waiting for the merge to advance. Furthermore, is set to turn into a financial tool that will be akin to everyone’s personal bank. One that delivers greater yield than conventional banking does, creates additional money flows to social impact, resolves the cost of capital crisis for developing countries and powers new financial innovation. Ethereum staking When it comes to enterprises and people staking at scale, independent staking is a preferable option. It is the safest and most profitable way to stake and so we wanted to explain exactly how to do it. How and which tools do you start with? What are the requirements? What is the best technical way to independently stake ETH? This article answers these questions to a useful level of detail. Why is Ethereum moving from POW to POS Deemed as one of the top 10 technological breakthroughs of 2022 by MIT, proof of stake sets out on a mission to remove the environmental and transaction capacity issues that Ethereum POW was known for. The merge of Ethereum and its shift to POS will cut the blockchain’s electricity consumption by over 99.95%. To some, it may seem irrelevant, but given the utility of the second-largest cryptocurrency in the world, it cements the blockchain’s sustainability and makes it environmentally future-proof. Security is another factor that lies at the heart of the transition. Blockchains are usually governed by their participants. Whilst POW required one to run an extensive amount of hardware to make governing changes on the network, POS cancels that at its roots. Once Ethereum proof of stake starts processing transactions, validators will risk losing their funds (32ETH per node) for any “bad actor behaviour” on the blockchain. Ethereum Validator nodes are rewarded with ETH for validating transactions and securing the blockchain, these earnings act as an effective interest rate that is paid in ETH to each validator node. To earn the node needs to be on and available with correctly configured correctly client software. Ways to stake Ethereum There are a plethora of services out there that can get you staking. The main difference to take note of is whether the provider offers you a custodial or non-custodial way of staking. This in turn governs how much you earn and how well your staking nodes are set up. For the sake of this investigation, we won’t dive too deep into custodial providers, apart from giving you a quick rundown of the pros and cons. are for customers who do not have 32ETH to run their own validator node. The obvious benefit here is that users still get access to staking, but the price of it is the high commission that the aforementioned service providers charge. Usual suspects here are the cryptocurrency exchanges like Coinbase, Binance and so forth. These entities let you stake less than 32ETH but would typically keep over 30% of the staking rewards. Furthermore, if decentralization is a primary factor why one decides to stake, such entities act against this notion, by grouping customers in pools and typically managing all the nodes. Custodial Ethereum staking providers offers higher returns and greater transparency. Regarded as the gold standard for staking independently, staking is secure, allows you to keep all of the rewards, and improves the decentralization of the network. Downsides? It is akin to rocket science for non-technical teams, individuals and companies. Still, entities like the UK-based Launchnodes, make it technically easy by setting up validator and beacon nodes for their clients in their clients’ own AWS account, providing them with more financial upside than custodial staking whilst removing the risk and technical complexity of doing it all on your own. Non-custodial Ethereum staking Before we deviate from Launchnodes, it is important to note that the company is a prime example of why is set to take the centre stage. Launchnodes works with financial institutions and multilateral organisations, helping them to become participants in the Ethereum Consensus Layer. It is not news that institutions stake crypto, but using rewards for social impact, as the company does, puts staking under a very bright light. Such activity means that Ethereum may soon become an integral part of the global economy, creating additional income channels for those who need it the most. Not simply the stomping ground for crypto bros. Ethereum staking Independent staking with your own validator If you or your team is capable of setting up validator nodes, then you can head directly to Ethereum Launchpad. Do note though, that rollout is complex. Not so much at the launch stage, but the node upkeep, which implies ensuring that it is always on and runs with no disruptions. Once a validator node is ready, you need a beacon node to connect to and it is this that is not covered as much by the online literature and guides. validator node Unfortunately having a validator node doesn’t grant you access to a beacon by default. See, having a validator node ready is great, but you then need to connect it to a beacon node and the only way to do it, is to either connect to an existing node or set up your own. Both of these options are made easy by Launchnodes. You can either connect to the company’s existing shared beacon node, or purchase a preconfigured and dedicated example on AWS. Alternatively setting up a beacon node is known to be much more technical than getting a validator node up and running, since beacon nodes are an integral part of the blockchain and they must never fail and take several days to sync. Given the technical aspect of the installation and managing a beacon node (must be always on and synched), it makes little sense to do it yourself when running a single validator. According to CEO of Launchnodes Jaydeep Korde, beacon nodes become purposeful for people that are running over minimum 5 nodes. Then again, it is your safety and infrastructure requirements that govern such decisions, and with Launchnodes nothing stops you from operating a 1 validator and 1 beacon node architecture. Validators, beacons and the future of Consensus Layer Independent Ethereum staking is widely considered to be the most profitable and best way to stake. Not only does it deliver 100% of rewards without any hidden commissions, but also acts as the safest way to be the blockchain’s participant. It improves the network’s decentralization, and hence, indirectly makes your holdings more valuable. Validator and beacon nodes can be launched on individual’s or organisation’s own hardware, or via public cloud providers like AWS, Azure, GCP and others. When it comes to nodes, these can be either launched individually or via a service provider that understands how to do it in a non-custodial manner. Only then does your staking become truly solo. Non-custodial means you should not have to log into someone else’s website or UI to access and see your nodes Finally, Ethereum staking and Consensus Layer specifically, introduce us to a completely new set of environmentally friendly and socially driven financial tooling. And with further development, we will be witnessing not only the rise of staking providers, but also new products that are fuelled by staking itself. Think of a new kind of banking, enhanced quality of life through universal basic incomes, a lower borrowing cost for citizens in developing countries, social impact-driven through long term sustainable revenue. Is Ethereum ready to become the financial framework of the future? We certainly hope so, which makes becoming a participant by running a validator a true no-brainer.

Independent Ethereum Staking in 2022 and How to Tie Validators to Beacon Nodes

We do two things at API3: Build the tooling that will make Web APIs available to smart contracts in the form of first-party oracles. This is not limited to integration, but also productization and monetization. Foster an API-first oracle ecosystem to break through the chicken-and-egg problem that is common in emerging technologies. The goal is to turn services that real-world businesses provide into building blocks on the blockchain, which developers will be able to compose into complex use-cases in a trustless way. These projects will be able to create value by the virtue of embodying real-world services, and will be a quantum leap over the speculatory Rube Goldberg machines that DeFi composability is limited to today. The implications of this far exceed the traditional DeFi use-cases, yet an elegant solution should be expected to apply for a variety of problems, and this is the case for first-party oracles. If one wants to set up a live asset price feed on-chain, doing this through first-party oracles is the ideal solution due to many reasons listed in . In this post, we will build up on this and discuss the of it. our whitepaper how What is wrong with “decentralized” oracles? The weakness in the traditional decentralized oracle model is that the assumption that powering a service through multiple nodes or APIs makes it decentralized. However, there are two additional requirements that all decentralized blockchain projects must satisfy: Lack of centralized governance Transparency, to be able to validate the decentralization requirements Transparency, to be able to validate the decentralization requirements Take the with the CoinMarketCap API for example. What can you make of this screenshot? recent issue On the surface, it looks like only 01node was affected by the issue. Were they only using the CMC API, or were they using other APIs that have misreported? What about the other nodes, how many others were using the CMC API (and/or others that have misreported), and how close were they to misreporting themselves? The answers to these questions don’t matter, the point is that they can’t be answered trustlessly. Normally, one should assume a lack of decentralization if they can’t verify it. However, this is not always the case: This begets the question: Why would anyone assume that Chainlink has never operated a “decentralized” data-feed using only 2 APIs? If this has ever happened under the veil of source obfuscation, is this not a graver issue than Band doing it openly? Our solution: First-party oracles, Beacons, dAPIs, insurance First-party oracles imply an inherently one-to-one mapping between data sources and oracles. Then, discussing transparency is redundant, as the oracle is the data source and the data source is the oracle. This is very useful in dealing with issues such as the recent CMC misreport, because one can be ensured that other first-party oracles are guaranteed to not be affected by the incident. Moreover, this allows the consumers to choose their oracles based on data source performance. Compared to this, you can’t tell to what degree third-party oracles will be affected by such an error or if they will take precautions in the future because their data sources can’t be investigated transparently. Individual first-party oracles will fare better in the case of data source problems, while third-party solutions obscure weaknesses until a catastrophic failure. What we want to discuss in this post is how data feeds should be designed to complement the first-partyness of the constituent oracles. To this end, we introduce a new concept called a , which is an atomic data feed that is powered by a singular first-party oracle. Beacon Michael Thompson, The Lighting of the Beacons, 2017. A Beacon is a point of data that is kept alive on-chain by the respective first-party oracle. Anyone is able to request a Beacon to be updated, given that they have funded their sponsor wallet that will be charged for the gas cost of the update. These updates can either be triggered by requests made through the request–response protocol, or will happen automatically based on the respective condition specified through the publish–subscribe protocol. In other words, Beacons will be built on the Airnode protocols, and carry over the data source transparency from the oracle-level to the data feed-level. The traditional way a data feed is built is that the data consumer is confined to what the centrally governed oracle project thinks is a good idea, and they don’t even know what they are agreeing to due to third-party oracles not being transparent with their data sources. In other words, the lack of composability is as important of a problem as the lack of transparency, as it disables the data consumer from rejecting data coming from a particular provider. Beacons will be the building blocks of dAPIs, meaning that a particular dAPI will be built as an arbitrary combination of Beacons. The Beacon-based dAPI architecture creates a paradigm shift in that it not only allows the user to see where exactly the data comes from, it also gives them granular control over the selection if they wish. Although Beacons are excellent components to build dAPIs out of, they are also ideal for standalone use when: The Beacon is reliable enough for the use-case and decentralization creates an unjustifiable overhead The Beacon is exceptionally reliable to the point that any decentralization would degrade the result Therefore, we foresee that API3 services will include both individual Beacons and dAPIs that are built out of these Beacons. But what if a client uses a Beacon in standalone fashion and the data provider keeping the Beacon experiences a failure? Beacons and their vast combinations in the form of dAPIs all appear as equivalent live data points on-chain, with differing levels of reliability. Then, singular Beacons — or from another point of view, dAPIs built out of individual Beacons — can share the same security guarantees that are meant for dAPIs: Insurance, made possible by API3 staking. The same incentives would apply, in that the DAO would only insure Beacons for standalone use if they are assessed to be adequately reliable, and black swan events would be covered by insurance premiums collected during normal operation. The recent CMC issue has validated our concerns about third-party oracles lacking data source transparency and how this makes it impossible to assess their level of reliability or decentralization. We found this to be an apt opportunity to introduce Beacons, as they are both data source-transparent and give the dAPI consumer not only information, but also control over where they get their data from. An important benefit of standalone Beacons secured through insurance will be breaking down the currently monolithic state of DeFi. When an oracle project is operated by a traditional centralized organization, this limits the number of chains and data feeds that they can serve, which forces their consumers to flock to the same chains to use the same data feeds or starve. Beacons will enable many previously infeasible use-cases and allow DeFi to grow wide, and not only tall. Finally, we find Beacons to be a very important step towards democratization of data feed composition and governance. This is closely related to our fractal scaling vision, in that we expect dAPI curation out of Beacons to be one of the important verticals that API3 ecosystem projects will pursue. For that to be possible, it is of utmost importance for dAPI composition to be easy and permissionless, which is one of the aims of the Beacon-based architecture. In this post, we have briefly introduced Beacons and how they fit in with our existing first-party oracle approach, dAPIs and insurance. We’re sure you have questions and ideas, so feel free to join and discuss them with the community. our Discord Previously published here

Stories, News & Mentions about BEACON

Beacon’s Stories on HackerNoon

Beacon's News & Mentions