Block Header Integrity
Block header integrity refers to the cryptographic verification of the block header to ensure that the block has not been tampered with and follows protocol rules. The header contains essential metadata, including the previous block hash, the Merkle root, a timestamp, and the nonce for proof-of-work.
Because each header contains the hash of the previous one, it creates a chain that makes it impossible to change a past block without recalculating all subsequent blocks. This structure ensures that the entire history of the blockchain remains consistent and secure against adversarial attacks.
Integrity checks involve verifying that the header meets the network's current difficulty target and that all referenced data is valid. It is the primary mechanism for maintaining the continuity of the ledger and preventing the insertion of fraudulent data.