The code release for the
upcoming GRAFT network update, which includes ASIC resistance, enhanced difficulty adjustment algorithm, and minor bug fixes, is almost ready to go, and we are on track to release it on Monday, April 9th, with the actual switch scheduled to be triggered around April 16th (the block number will be announced later). Currently, we are conducting regression tests. The ASIC resistance code in conjunction with the new difficulty algorithm is supposed to minimize the possibility of hashrate attacks – when significant hashrate power (generated by ASIC or large GPU miner) is connected for relatively short period of time and making it difficult for other miners to compete and solve the blocks, until the existing algorithm adopts to a new hashrate and adjusts the network difficulty. This is how the existing algorithm reacts to sudden hashrate spikes in the mainnet:
The following graph shows how the updated algorithm adjusts the difficulty much better after the simulated hashrate attacks:
Although we think the upcoming network update will be sufficient to protect the blockchain from the majority of hashrate attacks, we are also working on original, even more enhanced version of the difficulty adjustment algorithm, which is supposed to provide even better, more “symmetrical” and balanced response to any hashrate fluctuations. Since such enhancements require significant testing, which is very time consuming, we are planning to include it in the next network update (the one after the upcoming update on April 6th), along with the merge of recent Monero changes. As usual, we will follow up with more details soon. Stay tuned!
The following graph shows how the updated algorithm adjusts the difficulty much better after the simulated hashrate attacks:
Although we think the upcoming network update will be sufficient to protect the blockchain from the majority of hashrate attacks, we are also working on original, even more enhanced version of the difficulty adjustment algorithm, which is supposed to provide even better, more “symmetrical” and balanced response to any hashrate fluctuations. Since such enhancements require significant testing, which is very time consuming, we are planning to include it in the next network update (the one after the upcoming update on April 6th), along with the merge of recent Monero changes. As usual, we will follow up with more details soon. Stay tuned!
