Distributed ledger technology (DLT) vs blockchain technology

Blockchain technology and distributed ledger technology (DLT) are often used interchangeably. Blockchain is a specific form of DLT and, whilst blockchain uses a chain of blocks to record transactions, DLT is a broader term encompassing various technologies for distributed, synchronized data across multiple entities. Furthermore, blockchains have a linked and secure structure, often with consensus mechanisms such as proof or works (PoW) or proof of stake (PoS), emphasizing decentralisation. In general, DLT can take different structures beyond blockchains, may use diverse consensus mechanisms and may vary in degrees of centralization. DLT is the technological foundation enabling concurrent access, validation and record updating throughout a networked database. DLT is the basis upon which blockchains are built and its protocols allow users to view changes and also who made them (minimising the need for data audits), guarantee data integrity and grant access to only those who require it. …