Kaspa, a blockchain platform focused on high-throughput transactions, is set to launch a major upgrade known as DAGKnight. This consensus upgrade promises faster speeds, increased security, and enhanced scalability for the network. DAGKnight replaces fixed confirmation rules with a dynamic system that adapts to real-time network conditions. Here’s how it works:** The upgrade analyzes network behavior in real-time, allowing the system to confirm transactions more quickly when the network is healthy and adjust confirmation times during delays or attacks. This adaptive approach ensures the network maintains speed, security, and resilience even under fluctuating conditions. It also enhances Kaspa’s ability to support high-throughput applications like smart contracts. Why was DAGKnight created? Conventional blockchain networks often rely on hardcoded assumptions about network delay. These assumptions aim to keep the network safe but can slow down confirmation times significantly. For instance, Bitcoin uses a fixed delay of ten minutes for blocks, prioritizing safety over speed. However, this approach limits real-world use as a fast payment system. Kaspa sought a more flexible solution that could adapt to real-time network conditions without sacrificing security. How does DAGKnight achieve these goals? DAGKnight continuously analyzes the state of the network by examining groups of blocks within the DAG. These clusters, known as k-clusters, help determine the current delay and guide the optimal way to order blocks. When the network is fast, blocks are confirmed quickly; when delays occur, the system increases the number of confirming blocks for security. This automatic adjustment ensures stability even during congestion. Key features:** DAGKnight offers several unique advantages including: – Parameterless confirmation – Adaptive self-stabilizing behavior – Sub-second finality under normal network conditions – Higher resilience during congestion – 50% Byzantine fault tolerance – Direct support for high-throughput systems – A foundation for smart contract development on Kaspa. This combination enables DAGKnight to outperform traditional linear chains that rely on a single path of blocks. **What does this mean for users? **With DAGKnight, Kaspa can handle significantly higher transaction volumes while maintaining security and speed. The upgrade also paves the way for new features like smart contracts and faster cross-border payments. How secure is DAGKnight? DAGKnight’s design prioritizes safety through a high level of Byzantine fault tolerance (50% BFT) – this ensures the network remains secure even when faced with attacks attempting to exploit delays or slow down the process. **Conclusion:** DAGKnight represents a significant step forward for Kaspa, positioning it as a leading platform for both existing and future blockchain applications. By combining speed, security, and decentralization in a dynamic and adaptable system, DAGKnight promises a more efficient and reliable experience for users. Resources:** – Kaspa on X: Posts about the upcoming upgrade. – DAGKnight whitepaper. – GHOSTDAG whitepaper. – Our Crypto Talk report on the vProgs update and DAGKnight’s potential launch. – Kaspa blog articles (1 & 2) dedicated to understanding GHOSTDAG and DAGKNIGHT.**