Blockchain & Cryptocurrency Glossary

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libp2p

1 min read
Pronunciation
[lib-pee-two-pee]
Analogy
libp2p is like a toolbox of networking components—developers pick and assemble the pieces they need to build custom P2P protocols, just as you’d choose tools to build furniture.
Definition
A modular network stack for peer‑to‑peer applications, providing transport, peer discovery, and secure communication primitives.
Key Points Intro
libp2p offers essential building blocks for decentralized networks:
Key Points

Transports: TCP, UDP, WebRTC, QUIC modules.

Peer discovery: DHT, mDNS, pub/sub for finding nodes.

Secure channels: TLS, Noise protocol framework.

Stream multiplexing: Mplex, Yamux for concurrent streams.

Example
IPFS uses libp2p for peer discovery via DHT, encrypted channels via Noise, and multiplexed streams to fetch multiple blocks concurrently.
Technical Deep Dive
libp2p abstracts networking into components: Transport, Security, Muxer, PeerRouting, and PubSub. Each component implements an interface; developers can swap modules (e.g., switch from TCP to QUIC). The host binds components into a Swarm, manages peer connections, and routes streams.
Security Warning
Misconfiguring security transports can expose plaintext traffic; always enable a secure channel (Noise/TLS).
Caveat
Flexibility adds complexity—choosing and configuring modules requires expertise.
Related Terms
IPFS

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