Validator’s Opinion Dynamic in a Practical Byzantine Fault Tolerant Network⁎

Abstract

Byzantine Fault Tolerance (BFT) is a key framework for improving the resilience of distributed systems, particularly in blockchain networks. However, a major drawback of current consensus mechanisms is their inability to adapt to changing validator behavior. This paper introduces a novel probabilistic opinion dynamics model aimed at analyzing and predicting validator behavior in BFT-based blockchain systems. The model simulates the evolution of validator states and opinions to detect security vulnerabilities and anomalies that could compromise the network’s integrity. By monitoring the proportion of validators exhibiting similar behaviors or voting patterns, the model enables early detection of suspicious activities, allowing timely interventions through appropriate countermeasures. Simulation results demonstrate the model’s effectiveness in identifying and mitigating various forms of attacks, including transient and persistent threats, thereby enhancing the security and overall of the blockchain network.