Definition: A post-quantum, privacy-focused cryptocurrency that leverages the Bitcoin blockchain for consensus. It uses off-chain storage for scalability and employs quantum-resistant cryptographic techniques to ensure long-term security.
Context: Haircomb is designed to remain secure even if quantum computers compromise traditional cryptographic systems like Bitcoin.
COMB
Definition: The native cryptocurrency of the Haircomb ecosystem. COMB tokens are issued through a unique "Combbase" reward mechanism tied to Bitcoin blocks.
Context: COMB is claimed by miners who include specific types of outputs (P2WSH) in Bitcoin blocks.
Combbase
Definition: The reward mechanism in Haircomb that distributes COMB tokens to miners who include previously unseen Pay-to-Witness-Script-Hash (P2WSH) outputs in Bitcoin blocks.
Context: Combbase rewards decrease sub-exponentially over time, ensuring a slow and steady distribution of COMB tokens.
P2WSH (Pay-to-Witness-Script-Hash)
Definition: A type of Bitcoin transaction output that uses a witness script hash. In Haircomb, P2WSH outputs are used to claim COMB rewards.
Context: Only the first previously unseen P2WSH output in a Bitcoin block qualifies for a COMB reward.
Quantum Resistance
Definition: The property of a cryptographic system that remains secure against attacks from quantum computers. Haircomb uses post-quantum cryptographic algorithms, such as one-time signature schemes, to achieve this.
Context: Haircomb is designed to withstand potential quantum computing threats that could compromise traditional cryptographic systems like Bitcoin.
Off-Chain Storage
Definition: A method of storing transaction data outside the main blockchain ledger to enhance scalability and reduce on-chain data load.
Context: Haircomb uses off-chain storage to handle large volumes of transactions efficiently while maintaining data integrity through cryptographic proofs.
Merkle Segments
Definition: Constructs in Haircomb that use Merkle trees to route COMB to one of 2^16 predetermined destinations. They ensure data integrity and efficient transaction routing.
Context: Merkle segments enable scalable and secure transaction processing by organizing destinations in a Merkle tree structure.
Deciders
Definition: Cryptographic constructs in Haircomb that determine the outcome of transactions or actions by signing small (16-bit) decisions. They are used in scenarios like third-party arbitration and conditional payments.
Context: Deciders ensure that transactions are routed to the correct destination based on predefined rules or conditions.
Stacks
Definition: Constructs in Haircomb that split COMB between a target address and a change address. Once a stack receives a specified amount of COMB, it triggers, sending funds to the destination and redirecting excess to the change address.
Context: Stacks are used for stealth addresses, multi-payment transactions, and deferred payments.
Stealth Address
Definition: A privacy-enhancing feature in Haircomb that allows users to receive funds without revealing their actual address. Funds sent to a stealth address are automatically redirected to a hidden change address.
Context: Stealth addresses provide anonymity by obscuring the recipient's identity in transactions.
Post-Quantum Signature Scheme
Definition: A cryptographic signature scheme designed to remain secure against quantum computing attacks. Haircomb uses a one-time signature scheme based on hash functions.
Context: This scheme ensures that Haircomb transactions remain secure even if quantum computers break traditional cryptographic methods.
On-Chain Commits
Definition: Cryptographic commitments stored on the blockchain that link off-chain data to the blockchain. These commits ensure data integrity and verifiability without storing the entire dataset on-chain.
Context: On-chain commits are used in Haircomb to anchor off-chain transaction data to the Bitcoin blockchain.
Liquidity Graph
Definition: A representation of the flow of COMB within the Haircomb ecosystem, where transactions are depicted as edges between addresses (nodes).
Context: The liquidity graph ensures privacy by obscuring transaction histories and enabling efficient routing of funds.
Quantum-Safe Algorithms
Definition: Cryptographic algorithms designed to resist attacks from quantum computers. Haircomb uses lattice-based or hash-based cryptography for quantum resistance.
Context: These algorithms ensure that Haircomb remains secure in a post-quantum computing era.
Commitment Scheme
Definition: A cryptographic mechanism where a prover commits to a specific value without revealing it until later. Haircomb uses commitment schemes to ensure data integrity and privacy.
Context: Commitment schemes are used in Haircomb to hide transaction details while allowing verification when necessary.
Hashchain
Definition: A sequence of cryptographic hashes where each hash is derived from the previous one. Haircomb uses hashchains in its key generation process.
Context: Hashchains are used to create public and private keys in Haircomb, ensuring secure and quantum-resistant key management.
Double-Spending Attack
Definition: An attack where an attacker spends the same cryptocurrency twice by manipulating the transaction order or reversing transactions.
Context: Haircomb mitigates double-spending attacks through its consensus mechanism and cryptographic proofs.
Sybil Attack
Definition: An attack where an attacker creates multiple fake identities or nodes to gain disproportionate influence over a network.
Context: Haircomb prevents Sybil attacks by using Bitcoin's Proof-of-Work consensus and node authentication mechanisms.
Eclipse Attack
Definition: An attack where an attacker isolates a node by overwhelming it with malicious connections, forcing it to interact only with the attacker's nodes.
Context: Haircomb defends against eclipse attacks by using secure communication protocols and node authentication.
Atomic Swap
Definition: A peer-to-peer exchange of cryptocurrencies between two parties without the need for a trusted third party. Haircomb supports atomic swaps through its privacy mechanisms.
Context: Atomic swaps enable trustless and private exchanges of COMB with other cryptocurrencies.